Cyclone Fani Makes Presence Felt In State

SHILLONG: Heavy rain and gusty winds hit Meghalaya on Saturday in the aftermath of the Cyclone Fani’s impact.

According to reports coming from around the State, Fani’s approach into the State was accompanied by landslides, uprooting of tress and road blockades.

In one incident, a waterfall caused by incessant rain blocked the road leading to Syntein in East Khasi Hills. Fortunately there has been no report loss of lives.

There were also reports of damage of properties in Mynkre West Jaintia Hills and in Tura West Garo Hills.

In Shillong, a landslip damaged a house in Riat Laban area and due to strong winds, the sign of Vishal Mega Mart in Police Bazar area fell on stationary vehicles.

On May 3, in view of Cyclone Fani’s approach and impact in the State of Meghalaya as per forecast given by the Indian Meteorological Department, the State Government had issued an advisory to the general public to take precautions during the cyclonic storm.

The State Disaster Response Force team was kept in a state of high alert to see to any eventualities since the evening of May 3.

Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds were seen throughout the State on May 4 which increased in intensity between 12 pm and 5pm.

In South West Khasi Hills district, as per reports received till 6 pm on Saturday, a few houses suffered damages in Mawsaw, Lawblei, Wahsiej, Mawbidong and Mawthawpdah villages of Mawkyrwat C&RD Block.

The BDOs have informed that the affected households have been given assistance in the village itself and the Gram Sevaks are carrying out detailed assessment of damages.

Two electricity poles located in Jakrem in Mawkyrwat Block and Domshken in Ranikor Block tilted due to heavy winds and the line was immediately disconnected by MePDCL, and restoration work will be carried out.

A few incidents of trees collapsing were seen in which the PWD Roads Dept has carried out road clearing. No instances of injury or loss of life was reported.

The South West Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner has urged the public to remain in a state of alert and to not venture out during heavy rains and to avoid going near water bodies or rivers.

Fishing and boating activities must not be undertaken since the rivers will be swollen after the heavy rain.

Also Read: MEGHALAYA NEWS