Nongstoin, June 21: At least six villages located between the districts of South Garo Hills (SGH) and West Khasi Hills (WKH) have complained of being completely neglected after neither the district administrations nor the state governments reached out to them after the devastating rains on June 17.
Many areas in the interior, including the villages of Kalu (GH), Kalu (KH), Rengdim, Wakpongram, Bokchung and Nengchigen were badly impacted by the rains leaving them completely cut off from the rest of the state. Despite 4 days passing, apparently no attempts have been made by anyone to help the huge populace that lives there.
According to locals, most of the villagers in the above-mentioned villages lost their households and their livelihoods to one of the worst spells of rains to ever hit the region.
Recalling the situation, the All Khasi Hills Nokma Welfare Association, Rengdim unit in WKH stated they were the first ones to come forward during the time of crisis to help those affected by the devastating floods.
“We have been able to help them by giving them some money to buy essentials. Under the tutelage of our chairman, Alphonse Marak, we were able to alleviate a part of their problems. However a lot more needs to be done. We are extremely disappointed that none from the state or district administration has come forward to lend a hand,” informed Zimychyrst G Momin, member of the association.
An amount of Rs 6000 each was provided by the association to at least 30 families to overcome the current situation.
“They have lost their homes, livestock and other valuables and do not even have any food. These families have not received any relief or assistance from the government or the concerned departments as well as the disaster management team. We are proud of the fact that we are the first ones to provide any kind of assistance to these people. We will also try to help them in the future and approach the government to demand funds for them,” added Zimychryst.