Landslides Disrupt Road Communication In West Khasi Hills

Shillong: Following incessant rainfall that hit the State in the past couple of days, the impact is worst felt in West Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. The landslides that occurred in numerous stretches of the road connecting East Garo Hills and areas close to the inter state border prompted the Public Works Department (PWD) to issue a notification on Thursday. The Executive Engineer, PWD (Roads), Nongstoin Division, Nongstoin has informed that due to incessant rainfall that occurred from July 6–1, landslides at numerous stretches on Shillong-Nongstoin-Rongjeng-Tura road NH 44E and 127B, has partially blocked the road and restricted the smooth and safe plying of vehicles.

Complete road blockade is reported at 21st, 24th and 25th km of the same road since July 10. Landslides at stretches of Mawshynrut-Hahim road disrupting the plying of vehicles has also been reported. Temporary restoration work to clear the mud slides and restore the movement of vehicles have been taken up. Drivers are advised to drive cautiously and every effort from the department has been pressed for the convenience of the public.

Moreover, another caution was also released by the government to residents living downstream. Due to incessant rains during the last few days, the water level of the Umiam Reservoir has risen upto 3206.90 ft at 8 am on July 11. It is apprehended that in case of heavy rainfall in the catchment area of the Umiam Dam, the reservoir may become full which will necessitate the opening of the gates of the Umiam Concrete Dam.

All persons residing or working in the downstream of the Umiam Concrete Dam are therefore cautioned against engaging in any activity near the banks of the River Umiam since the level of water in the river may suddenly rise due to opening of gates of the dam. However, all efforts will be made to regulate the discharge of water through the gates to the minimum. This was informed by the Chief Engineer (C), Maintenance & Small Hydro, MePGCL.

Also Read: Village Women Repair PWD Road in West Khasi Hills, Shillong