TURA, Jan 16: The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), West Garo Hills, has advised caution and directed immediate remedial measures following the collapse of the retaining wall of the West Stand of PA Sangma Stadium, Dakopgre, due to incessant rainfall.
The incident was reported by the State Sports Council of Meghalaya (SSCM), wherein the retaining wall of the West Stand collapsed on June 23, 2023, posing serious risks to pedestrians and residents in and around the stadium area. A joint inspection conducted by the DDMA, West Garo Hills, along with officials of SSCM, revealed the urgent need to prevent further collapse and ensure long-term structural stability.
According to the DDMA order, the inspection report indicated that redevelopment of the retaining wall and stadium stands through a permanent, properly engineered structure is essential to avoid further damage. It was also noted that diversion of the existing locality road is required as part of the safety and redevelopment measures.
In this regard, the DDMA has declared the affected area unsafe for habitation until further notice. Residents of Deringgagre locality have been advised to exercise extreme caution, and pedestrians have been directed to move carefully around the site.
The State Sports Council of Meghalaya has been directed to commence construction work immediately to create a permanent and stable engineered structure at the site.
All stakeholders involved in the construction of PA Sangma Stadium, including landowners towards the West Stand, have been instructed to cooperate fully in the construction process to prevent any untoward incidents.
Similarly, all concerned departments and stakeholders, including SSCM, Coal India Pvt. Ltd. and local residents, have been instructed to comply with the order with immediate effect.
