The recent natural disasters in Garo Hills have claimed 15 lives, affected 246 villages, and damaged over 665 homes, impacting more than 6.5 lakh people across Meghalaya, according to Environment Minister Bah Kyrmen Shylla.
Addressing the media, Bah Kyrmen expressed deep condolences to the affected families and emphasized the severity of the disaster, particularly in West Garo Hills, where 132 villages were hit, 93 homes were damaged, and five people lost their lives. South Garo Hills saw 79 villages affected, 244 homes destroyed, and seven fatalities. East Garo Hills also reported damage, with 12 villages affected and three people losing their lives.
Minister Kyrmen noted that alongside the loss of life and property, livestock and crops were also severely impacted. Temporary shelters have been set up, including 68 in West Garo Hills and one in South Garo Hills, to accommodate those displaced by the disaster.
Efforts are ongoing to provide relief and assistance to the affected communities.