Saturday storm, rain cause more damages

SHILLONG/AMPATI: Even before the effect of hailstorm and heavy rain could wane, strong wind and thundershower lashed parts of the State again on Saturday causing damage to construction and crops.
One house was damaged at Mawkarah Mawpni in West Khasi Hills. The administration is assessing the situation, sources said.
In South West Garo Hills, the impact was bigger but the extent of damage is yet to be fully assessed.
Houses, plantations, roads and government buildings were damaged across the district. Uprooted trees have blocked several roads. Electricity wires were snapped leading to darkness in many localities.
District and block-level officials have already started the groundwork to prepare reports on the damages.
The meteorological office in Guwahati has predicted heavy rain and thunder quall in isolated parts of the State till Monday.
Relief materials
People in several parts of the State, especially rural areas, are still recuperating from the damages caused by the hailstorm and heavy shower over a week ago.
In view of the prevailing situation, the KSU North Khasi Hills unit distributed iron sheets for roofing and rice in affected villages on Saturday.
The pressure group has asked traditional heads to prohibit burning of forests as “it is one of the reasons for climate change”, it said.
The group said it would do its best to help farmers, who have lost their crops, in Jirang cope with the damage.