Flood Continues to Create Havoc in Garo Hills

The plight of the people in plain belt area of West Garo Hills may not be over so soon, as rivers are still flowing above the danger level.

After two days, rain again lashed the plain belt areas today, which had witnessed less rainfall and there were hopes that water may recede.

The relief distribution began on Sunday but people seem agitated as they complained that the relief has come very late. In a step taken to streamline distribution of rations, the relief materials are given to headman for distribution, which began today amidst chaos.

“We expect that at times of crisis, the government will help us. It took 13 days for the government to provide us relief. This is callous and step motherly treatment for the minorities living in Garo hills”, said Hameed Ali, a resident of New Bhaitbari, who is sheltered in a relief camp with his wife and two children. The plain belt area of Garo hills is prone to flood. People living in the area are prepared to tackle with flood crisis but they expect a helping hand from the administration and the government.

“Many have received relief from the administration but there are also people, who have not received anything. We are sharing whatever we have with other inmates. The administration should ensure that drinking water and toilet facilities are also provided”, said Latifa Begum, who is living in a makeshift camp on the PWD road at Phulbari.

The people are hopeful that water may recede but fear looms large as they say that monsoon is still active. “If there is heavy rain again in the catchment areas of the Brahmaputra (Assam) and
in Garo hills, the situation in downstream area of plain belt may worsen”, said Samgar Sangma, an activist with the Centre for Environment and Rural Development.

So far, three people have lost their lives in the flood, which included a minor and a woman. Two people are still missing. The flood has affected nearly 2 lakh people with over 25,000 people sheltered in 26 relief camps.

“I urge the state and centre government to provide all assistance to bring back the people to normalcy. Proper assessment of damages should be made, so that the victims can be compensated. The situation continues to remain grim in plain belt areas”, said Conrad Sangma, who left for New Delhi today after touring the flood hit areas.

source: NET Bureau, Saidul Khan