Nongpoh, May 31: Heavy rains have caused severe mudslides in Jorabat after an illegally excavated hill collapsed, inundating roads and footpaths with large volumes of mud and causing major disruptions for residents and commuters. The incident, directly linked to unregulated earth-cutting activities by private individuals, has endangered lives and properties in the area.
Residents are facing immense frustration as they are forced to navigate through thick sludge for their daily routines. One house is reportedly on the verge of collapse due to the weakened soil foundation from continuous excavation. Auto-rickshaw drivers have also been significantly impacted, with their parking area overtaken by mud, forcing them to relocate and affecting their livelihoods.
In response to public grievances, members of the Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP), Byrnihat Circle and 12 Mile Unit, conducted a site visit on Saturday. The delegation, led by Vice Presidents Debose Chyne and Ricky Marak, met with affected residents and attempted to engage with those responsible for the earth cutting and stone blasting. However, neither the manager nor the owner of the excavation work failed to appear at the site.
In a strong show of protest, the FKJGP locked the entry gate to the excavation site and issued a stern warning that the gate must remain locked. They demand that those responsible should come forward, hold discussions with the organization, and provide compensation to the affected households.
Residents are now urgently calling for immediate government intervention to prevent further damage and to rigorously regulate illegal earth excavation activities throughout the region.
