SHILLONG: The government has disbursed a total of Rs 19.85 crore to the deputy commissioners of all districts to provide immediate relief to those affected by tropical cyclone Remal.
The cyclone, accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds on Wednesday, caused significant damage across several districts, with Eastern West Khasi Hills and West Garo Hills being the hardest hit.
Disaster Management Minister Kyrmen Shylla, while providing a district-wise breakdown of the impact, said that 1,243 people were affected in seven villages of Eastern West Khasi Hills, with three houses damaged.
“The cyclone also damaged electric poles and roads, and restoration efforts are underway,” he affirmed.
In West Garo Hills, 761 people across 72 villages were affected, with 76 houses damaged.
Among the damaged structures were five public properties, four schools, a farm, and a building, the Minister added.
North Garo Hills and South Garo Hills experienced significant damage to public roads and electric lines due to uprooted trees.
Minister Shylla also informed that Remal resulted in the loss of one life in East Jaintia Hills, injuries to five individuals, and affected a total population of 5,169 across 271 villages.
Citing recent reports, he added that the cyclone damaged 903 houses in East Jaintia Hills, and the total financial loss incurred is currently being assessed.
South West Garo Hills has been without electricity since May 26, and efforts are ongoing to restore power.
In West Jaintia Hills, the cyclone uprooted trees and caused landslides. In East Jaintia Hills, where one person lost his life in Wapung C&RD, a house was also damaged.
Minister Shylla assured that ex-gratia payments to the next of kin of the deceased would be provided as per the norm, though he did not disclose the amount to be paid.
