Shillong: A powerful storm has left a trail of destruction across several villages in Meghalaya’s Ri-Bhoi district, causing extensive damage to homes, plantations, and crucial infrastructure. The unexpected weather event, which struck Umling Block on Monday afternoon, caught residents off guard, leading to significant losses.
Officials confirmed that the twin villages of Umdap Dumu and Umdap Rngi bore the brunt of the tempest, with approximately 20 houses sustaining damage. The villagers’ livelihoods have also taken a severe hit, as vast stretches of areca nut plantations and banana groves were laid waste by the high winds and heavy rains. Further compounding the woes, numerous electric poles were toppled, plunging parts of the area into darkness and disrupting essential services.
In a joint appeal, the heads of Umdap Dumu and Umdap Rngi have urged the district authorities to swiftly deploy assessment teams to ascertain the full extent of the damages. They have also called for immediate compensation and support to help the affected families rebuild their lives and livelihoods. As of now, the district administration has not yet issued a formal response to the villagers’ plea, leaving many anxiously awaiting assistance.
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