Northeast Desk, 29th May: Under the directive of Ms. Annapurna Alley, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Namchi, a thorough inspection was carried out today in Melli to evaluate the situation resulting from the escalating water levels of the Teesta River.
Ms. Alley was accompanied by a team of senior officials including Dr. T. N. Gyatsho, Superintendent of Police (SP) Namchi; Ms. Monika Rai, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Jorethang; Mr. Nilkanth Bhandari, Block Development Officer (BDO) Sumbuk; Ms. Peggyla Venchugpa, Divisional Forest Officer (Territorial) Namchi; Mr. Kishor Kumar Chettri, Police Inspector (PI) Melli; Ms. Sonam Bhutia, Revenue Officer (RO) Melli; and Ms. Dechen Ongmu Bhutia, Junior Engineer from the Water Resource Department in Jorethang, along with officials from various line departments.
The inspection commenced with DC Namchi inquiring about the local conditions concerning the rising water levels. The team conducted a detailed survey of the affected areas, starting from Melli ground near Yes Bank Limited (YBL) to West Bengal Melli and Bhalu Khola, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the imminent threats posed by the increasing water levels.
Residents living in low-lying areas near the riverbed voiced their concerns about the current crisis and requested immediate protective measures to ensure their safety.
Ms. Alley attentively listened to the residents’ grievances and suggested the use of sandbags and Hydra steps for urgent intervention. These measures aim to provide immediate assistance and protection, reducing the risks associated with potential flooding.
The inspection and the subsequent recommendations are part of a proactive approach to mitigate risks and safeguard the local community from the hazards posed by the rising Teesta River. The initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing the immediate needs of the affected residents and enhancing the region’s preparedness for such natural events.
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