GUWAHATI: In the aftermath of the devastating flash floods in Sikkim, over 20 students from Meghalaya are stranded in the Himalayan state, officials disclosed on Friday.
“Out of 31 students from Meghalaya currently studying in Sikkim, five managed to make their way back home, while concerted efforts are underway to ensure the safe return of the remaining 26,” a official from Meghalaya said, as quoted by a prominent national news agency.
Earlier in the day, recognising the urgency of the situation, the Meghalaya government had swiftly activated a dedicated helpline number – 1800-345-3644 – to extend support to any state citizens in distress due to the calamity in Sikkim.
Additionally, for emergencies, the state has advised students and residents of Meghalaya in Sikkim to directly contact government officials – A Ali, Additional Director of Higher and Technical Education, and FB Ramsiej, the Deputy Director – at 98630 63305 and 7005037347, respectively.
On October 5, amidst the flood crisis, the Chief Minister had revealed that students from Meghalaya studying in Sikkim reached out to him, seeking assistance in light of the deteriorating conditions.
Through a post on a popular micro-blogging platform, he had said, “The Meghalaya government is actively coordinating with these students to provide all necessary support.”
In a parallel development, Sikkim’s Chief Minister, Prem Singh Tamang, declared a compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of the victims of the state’s recent flash flood. Additionally, he proclaimed an instant aid of Rs 2,000 for every individual taking refuge in the designated relief camps.
The flash floods, which originated from an intense cloudburst above Lhonak Lake in Sikkim’s northern area on October 4, have wreaked havoc, claiming the lives of at least 27 people by Friday and leaving 23 army personnel missing. The Indian Army has mobilised, conducting helicopter rescues to evacuate the numerous individuals stranded in flood-hit zones.
