By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 6: Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem and Rangbah Shnongs from 20 villages in Ri-Bhoi have called on the state government to strengthen disaster response mechanisms at both the state and district levels.
Leading a delegation, the MLA met Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Lahkmen Rymbui to discuss delays in fund disbursement and the need for more efficient relief distribution.
Citing Meghalaya’s vulnerability to floods, landslides, and extreme weather, Syiem said a streamlined response system is critical. He proposed a faster process for releasing funds from the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) to district authorities during emergencies, noting that current delays often hamper immediate relief operations.
Additionally, he recommended increasing fund allocations to District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMA). This would enable districts to respond quickly without waiting for state-level approvals, ensuring the timely distribution of rations and CGI sheets to affected families and farmers.
Syiem said he expects a positive response from the government, noting that better disaster preparedness is essential for safeguarding lives and livelihoods across the state.
