Guwahati: In the wake of Cyclone Remal, North East India is grappling with severe destruction, tragic loss of life, and unprecedented rainfall.
In Aizawl’s Meltham and Hlimen border, a stone quarry collapsed around 6 am on May 28, resulting in the death of 14 individuals, with one child rescued and promptly hospitalised. The devastating collapse, attributed to the cyclonic conditions, destroyed several nearby houses. Among the deceased, six were identified as Mizos and three as non-Mizos, while the identities of others remain unknown. Search operations continue, as many workers, reportedly all non-tribals, are feared dead.
Tripura experienced historic rainfall over the past 24 hours, recording over 200 mm, the highest in 67 years. The Disaster Management Authority reported that Cyclone Remal, with winds reaching 165 kmph, uprooted trees and destroyed electric poles, causing widespread disruption. Notably, Unakoti recorded 252.4 mm of rainfall, the highest in the state, followed closely by Dhalai with 248.3 mm.
“After 67 years, Tripura has recorded the highest rainfall in 24 hours, exceeding 200 mm,” an official stated. Despite the cyclone’s passage, scattered rainfall is expected to continue throughout the state.
Assam and Meghalaya Brace for Continued Impact: Student Killed
Appealing citizens to remain at home, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma informed, “Cyclone Remal has affected Assam, causing storms in many areas. Tragically, a student, Kausik Bordoloi Amphi (17), died in Morigaon, and 12 students were injured in Dhekiajuli due to falling trees. In Guwahati,Uprooted trees in places like Cotton University and Jyoti Chitraban caused no damage to people or buildings. Power supply is disrupted in lower Assam, including Guwahati. We are monitoring the situation and request everyone to stay indoors until the situation stabilises.”
Guwahati faced heavy rainfall and gusty winds as Cyclone Remal made landfall. Temperatures across Assam, except in Silchar, dropped below 30 degrees Celsius, a stark contrast to the recent highs of 40 degrees Celsius. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Guwahati forecasted extremely heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds for Karimganj, Cachar, Dima Hasao, and Goalpara districts.
The RMC also predicted very heavy rain and thunderstorms for Dhubri, Barpeta, South Salmara Mankachar, and Hailakandi districts, while lighter showers are expected in other areas.
In response to the cyclone, the Meghalaya government preemptively closed schools in districts expected to receive heavy rainfall. The State Disaster Management Authority warned residents of potentially extreme weather, with squally winds reaching up to 6mphph expected to affect East Jaintia, East Khasi, South West Khasi, West Jaintia, and West Khasi hills districts.
As North East India endures the wrath of Cyclone Remal, authorities and residents are in a state of heightened alert. The extensive damage, loss of life, and historic rainfall underscore the devastating impact of this natural disaster. Rescue and recovery efforts are ongoing, with communities rallying to support those affected.
