Shillong: Residents of Pahamlang village in Ri-Bhoi district are blaming Mawkyrwat MLA Renikton Lyngdoh Tongkhar for a flood that wrecked their neighborhood. They claim he dumped earth into the area, blocking natural drains. Rainwater had nowhere to go. It surged into homes on July 20.
Seventeen families took a hit. Some had to flee as mud filled their living rooms. The flood ruined crops, household goods, and property walls. Total damage estimates range from Rs 40 lakh to Rs 50 lakh. Many of these people are daily wage earners who have nothing left to fall back on.
The victims filed a formal complaint with Additional Deputy Commissioner Jonathan Shylla on Thursday. They showed up with support from the Ri Bhoi People’s Council. Jayson Lennox Nongrum, president of the council, slammed the dumping as an "irresponsible" move. He demanded the district act now to stop it from happening again.
The victims want an immediate site inspection and emergency cash. The ADC promised to look into the claims and handle the situation. The district administration is currently weighing their next move.
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