Photo Courtesy: nenews
Shillong: South West Garo Hills is bracing for severe weather. Deputy Commissioner Hema Nayak issued an order under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, putting all government departments and emergency responders on high alert. The move follows an India Meteorological Department forecast warning of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning across Meghalaya. Officials must prepare for floods, road blockages, and landslides. They are barred from leaving their posts without permission.
The administration has ordered departments to keep rescue equipment, machinery, and communication systems ready for immediate use. Quick Response Teams are on standby. Agencies including the State Disaster Response Force, police, and medical teams must remain prepared for rapid deployment. The District Emergency Operation Centre will run round the clock. Nayak warned that "any violation of the order would invite action under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, besides disciplinary proceedings under the applicable service conduct rules."
Amid these emergency preparations, the government confirmed a local holiday for July 16, 2026. This marks Garo Labour Corps Day. Based on a government notification from October 2025, all state offices, revenue offices, magisterial courts, and schools will shut down. The holiday honors the Garo men of the 69th Labour Corps who served in France during World War I and returned home in 1918. The 108th anniversary commemoration will take place at the District Auditorium in Tura and will include a ceremony for the survivors' descendants. Meanwhile, workers are finishing the permanent Garo Labour Corps Cenotaph at Babupara.
Comments