By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 4: Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Lahkmen Rymbui has cautioned that Shillong is unsuitable for multi-storied buildings due to its unplanned urban growth and fragile infrastructure.
Speaking at a programme to distribute Emergency Responder Kits (ERKs) to trained volunteers under the Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme (YAMS) on Tuesday, Rymbui said Assam-type houses remain best suited for the city’s terrain and geography.
Citing Laitumkhrah as an example, the minister pointed out that a locality originally designed to accommodate around 8,000 to 9,000 residents now houses nearly 40,000 people because of unchecked high-rise constructions. “In such congested areas, responding to disasters in a mechanised manner becomes extremely difficult, especially for first responders,” he noted.
Rymbui also expressed concern over Shillong’s narrow roads, recalling his past experiences as Home Minister during major fire incidents. “Fire tenders often couldn’t reach the site because the lanes were too narrow or blocked by parked vehicles,” he said.
The minister stressed the importance of urban planning, disaster preparedness and civic responsibility, and urged citizens to act responsibly during emergencies.
“Instead of recording videos or making reels, inform the authorities immediately,” he advised.
Commending the volunteers trained under YAMS, Rymbui lauded their sense of duty and preparedness.
“Disasters can happen anytime and anywhere. Most are man-made today, so it is vital to stay prepared,” he said, while appreciating the contributions of the Nehru Yuva Kendra, Meghalaya Bharat Scouts and Guides (MBS&G), NCC, and NSS in promoting community service and resilience.
Earlier, Commissioner and Secretary of Revenue and Disaster Management, Matsiewdor War Nongbri, spoke about the importance of collaboration among departments, institutions and communities in mitigating disaster risks.
On the other hand, East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner and DDMA Chairperson, RM Kurbah, highlighted the role of community-based disaster preparedness and youth participation at the grassroots level. Earlier, the event began with a welcome address by Additional Deputy Commissioner and DDMA CEO, Shanborlang Warjri, followed by a documentary on YAMS.
The programme also featured experience sharing by volunteer Kerda Khongwir and a talk by Col. Deepak Nambiar, Commanding Officer of 61 Bn Meghalaya NCC, on partnerships in disaster preparedness. A live demonstration by Aapda Mitra volunteers showcased their emergency response skills, culminating in the distribution of Emergency Responder Kits equipped with essential tools. It may be mentioned that a total of 434 volunteers have received training under YAMS in East Khasi Hills District, including 191 from NCC, 100 from NSS, 94 from NYKS and 49 from MBS&G.
