Guwahati: Cyclone Remal has unleashed a wave of destruction across North East India, leaving a trail of death, injury, and severe flooding. The cyclone, which made landfall earlier this week, has battered several states, causing unprecedented chaos and damage.
In Assam, the cyclone claimed the lives of seven individuals, including two school students. A father and son tragically lost their lives while sleeping in Guwahati when a tree fell on their house. In Morigaon and Dhubri, two school students were killed when trees fell on their school vans. Over 20 people have been injured across the state.
West Karbi Anglong district is facing severe flooding after water was released through five gates of the Karbi Langpi Hydro Power Project and seven gates of the Khandang Hydropower Project due to incessant rains. The overflowing Kopili and Borpani rivers have led to widespread inundation. In Hailakandi and Silchar town in southern Assam, artificial floods caused by heavy rains have left several areas submerged since the night of May 28.
The overall death toll from landslides and torrential rains triggered by Cyclone Remal has risen to 28. Search operations continue as authorities strive to recover several bodies still missing. The Meltham quarry collapse accounted for 14 of these deaths, while the remaining fatalities occurred in surrounding areas impacted by massive landslides.
In the Salem locality, a landslide claimed the lives of a family of three. Fatalities have also been reported in Falkawn, Kanan, Kulikawn, and ITI localities due to similar landslides.
Imphal on Edge with Rivers Near Danger Levels
In Manipur’s Imphal, several rivers are dangerously close to breaching their danger levels. The Nambul, Manipur, and Kongba rivers are just half a foot away from causing severe flooding. Flash floods have already submerged streets in the Imphal Valley, resulting in significant water logging in numerous homes. In Imphal East, areas along the Imphal River have surpassed their danger levels, causing substantial disruption and concern among residents.
Cyclone Remal has devastated Tripura, destroying 446 houses and damaging crops valued at approximately Rs 8.30 crore. Heavy rainfall has thrown life out of gear in many parts of the state. Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha assessed the flood situation in the Bardowali assembly constituency in Agartala, assuring that the state government is closely monitoring the situation to mitigate undue hardship during these challenging times.
Meghalaya: Power Lines Damaged in Garo Hills
In Meghalaya, Cyclone Remal has severely damaged power lines, particularly in the Garo Hills region. Power Minister AT Mondal reported significant damage and informed that restoration work is progressing rapidly, with 80 additional manpower engaged to expedite repairs.
In Sikkim, the Teesta River is flowing above its danger level after heavy rainfall caused by Cyclone Remal. Authorities have issued alerts for residents in the Teesta Basin, as the river’s overflowing waters pose significant risks following 24 hours of relentless rain.
Regional Impact and Ongoing Efforts
The impact of Cyclone Remal has been felt across the Northeast, with each state grappling with its own set of challenges. From Assam’s severe flooding and tragic deaths to Tripura’s destroyed homes and damaged crops, the cyclone’s devastation is widespread. Imphal’s precarious river levels and Meghalaya’s damaged power infrastructure further highlight the extensive reach of this natural disaster.
Authorities across the region are working tirelessly to manage the aftermath. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, and governments are mobilising resources to support affected communities. The resilience of the people in these states is being tested as they navigate the aftermath of Cyclone Remal.
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