Shillong, Jul 9: The continuous monsoon rains have affected road infrastructure across Southwest Garo Hills district. However, no human or animal casualties and no reported crop damage have been reported so far.
According to the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), several key roads including the Silkona–Tikrikilla road in the Mahendraganj area, the Lokaichar–Kalaipara road, and the Garobadha–Dalu road (around km 52) have suffered due to landslides and erosion from heavy rainfall. Damage has also been reported on the Kotchu Adok road, connecting Purakhasia and Dalu, which has been impacted by incessant rain.
These damages pose serious challenges to commuters and the movement of essential services.
Officials stated that a road blocked by a landslide has been partially cleared, allowing traffic movement, while restoration works on damaged road embankments will be undertaken after floodwaters recede and weather conditions improve.
The district administration informed that there have been no reports of damage to drinking water infrastructure or communication facilities, and no relief distribution has been required so far.
Meanwhile, the district administration has activated a round-the-clock control room to ensure prompt response to disasters and better coordination during emergencies.
An order issued by the Deputy Commissioner said that officials and staff have been deputed on a rotational basis to man the Control Room from July to September 2026. The personnel will receive emergency calls, coordinate with the concerned departments and provide necessary assistance during monsoon-related incidents.
The duty roster covers all seven days of the week to ensure uninterrupted functioning of the Control Room.
District Disaster Management Officer, DDMO, Debojit Koch and Civil Defence and Home Guard Inspector Abhijeet Hajong have been designated as the officers in charge to supervise the operations and coordinate emergency response measures.
The order has been circulated to all Heads of Departments, Block Development Officers of Betasing, Zikzak, Rerapara and Purakhasia C&RD Blocks, and other concerned officials for compliance.
The district administration has appealed to the public to remain vigilant during the monsoon season and immediately report any flood, landslide, road blockade or other emergency so that timely assistance can be provided.
