Nongstoiñ is in desperate need of flood defences as it sits at the confluence of two rivers, making it vulnerable when heavy rain strikes the West Khasi Hills district headquarters.
Nongstoiñ received more than 200mm of rain yesterday and the lives of two children were lost in a landslide caused by the incessant rain. Many parts of the town were deep under water due to the rivers bursting their banks.
Local MLA Gabriel Wahlang said that the main reason for the flood problems in Nongstoiñ is because the town sits at the confluence of the Nonbah and Nondeiñ rivers.
The worst affected areas are in New Nongstoiñ and Upper Nongstoiñ, Wahlang said. Though it will be a herculean task to forestall flooding, which happens every year during the peak of the monsoon, the only solution would be to construct barriers or retaining walls in areas where the rivers tend to burst their banks, he added.
On the situation this year, the legislator appreciated the rescue efforts of the district administration, police and village volunteers.
Further heavy rain is expected in West and South West Khasi Hills on Monday, as well as in several other districts of Meghalaya. Authorities have continued to urge the public to be cautious.
