Aizawl: Amidst heavy rainfall in the aftermath of Cyclone Remal, a tragic incident unfolded in Mizoram’s Aizawl district as a stone quarry collapsed, claiming the lives of seventeen individuals. Many others are still trapped under the debris, prompting officials to launch a search and rescue operation.
HIGHLIGHTS
- In addition to the loss of lives, numerous trees and electric poles were uprooted, while several roads became impassable due to the deluge.
- The Mizoram DGP also said that several landslide incidents have also been reported from different parts of the state. “Police personnel are engaged in rescue operations. The water levels of rivers are also rising and many people living in the riverside areas have been evacuated,” the DGP said.
- Government employees have been directed to carry out their duties remotely as landslides continue to wreak havoc on transportation networks. According to officials, numerous highways and crucial roads have succumbed to the natural phenomenon, causing widespread disruption. Notably, Aizawl has been cut off from the rest of the country following a landslide on National Highway 6 at Hunthar.
- The Mizoram administration said in a release, “In view of the inclement weather and the warning issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on “Cyclone Remal”, the State Government hereby orders closure of all Government offices today i.e., 28th May, 2024 (Tuesday) with the exception of offices rendering essential services such as Disaster Management and Rehabilitation, District Administration, Health and Family Welfare, Mizoram Police, Power and Electricity, Public Health Engineering, etc.”
- Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has announced comprehensive relief measures to aid those affected by Cyclone Remal within the state. The Department of Information and Public Relations, Government of Mizoram, revealed that affected individuals will receive assistance totalling Rs 15 crore, while relatives of the deceased will be provided ex-gratia payments of Rs 4 lakhs each, as per an ANI report.
- Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued warnings of squally winds, ranging from 40-50 kmph to 35-45 kmph across different regions and said that the adverse weather conditions were anticipated to persist until the evening of May 28, 2024, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance and preparedness among residents.
