By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Opposition Leader Conrad K Sangma on Saturday assessed the situation in the plain belts of West Garo Hills which were devastated by floods on August 16, during a visit to the affected areas on Saturday.
During his visit, Sangma expressed deep sympathy over the unfortunate incident which claimed nine lives and assured all help from his end for the affected families.
Since the road connecting Phulbari and Selsella was cut off after an old wooden bridge was washed away by flood waters, Conrad had to travel on motorbikes to reach the affected areas.
He also had to travel on foot to reach some of the affected places since many small bridges had been washed away by the flash flood.
The Opposition leader was accompanied by NCP MLAs, MDCs, BDOs and SDOs.
Commenting after the assessment, Conrad said the government should carry out a proper assessment since the plain belt areas had suffered extensive damage. The assessment would be necessary so that relief could be extended to the affected people, he added.
Sangma also mentioned that the affected villagers required immediate help and the government should sanction basic amenities like food, drinking water, shelter and clothes for the affected people. Urgent medical attention including medicines should also be sanctioned to prevent outbreak of any water-borne diseases, he observed.
The Opposition Leader also called for an economic stimulus package for the victims which could be provided on a short-, medium- or long-term basis.