A series of rain-induced calamities struck Mizoram late Friday night, leaving a trail of collapsed houses and raising concerns for five missing Myanmar nationals, though one has since been rescued. The relentless downpour has put the state on high alert, with rescue operations intensifying across affected districts.
In Khawzawl district, the village of New Chalrang witnessed a house collapse following a significant landslide. Fortunately, timely evacuation meant no casualties were reported from this incident, offering a brief reprieve amidst the unfolding crisis.
However, the situation turned grim in Lawngtlai, a southern district, where four structures succumbed to the continuous onslaught of heavy rain. The collapsed buildings included two under-construction RCC structures and two traditional Assam-type houses, highlighting the widespread impact of the inclement weather.
One of the severely impacted properties was a hotel owned by a woman identified as Hlupui, which was accommodating 21 guests at the time of the collapse. According to Eden Lalrammawia, Financial Secretary of the Young Lai Association, 15 guests along with the owner managed to escape the falling debris. A swift rescue operation also led to one guest being pulled out alive from the rubble.
The most pressing concern, however, revolves around five individuals, identified as nationals from Rakhine State, Myanmar, who remain unaccounted for. Joint efforts by local authorities and community volunteers are underway, tirelessly searching for the missing amidst the challenging conditions.
Separately, another house collapse incident saw an elderly man and his helper rescued from the wreckage. Both individuals were subsequently admitted to a nearby hospital, receiving treatment for injuries, including trauma to their hips.
District disaster response teams have been fully mobilised, and the administration is meticulously monitoring areas identified as vulnerable. With the monsoon showing no signs of abating, authorities are bracing for further challenges, while rescue efforts continue to be the primary focus, particularly for the still-missing Myanmar nationals and the structural integrity of buildings in the rain-battered regions.