Authorities are urging residents living in landslide-prone areas of Guwahati to evacuate immediately after recent landslides have caused damage and loss of life. The most recent landslide occurred during the late hours of May 30 in the Rudra Nagar locality of Chandmari, causing a house to collapse but fortunately resulting in no casualties.
The incident at Rudra Nagar occurred around 1:30 am, with the house belonging to Raju Das being severely impacted. The collapse was sudden, and the force of the landslide left the structure in ruins. An official from the Fire and Emergency Services (F&ESS) spoke to GPlus, stating, "It was a landslide and no casualties were reported."
Click here to join our WhatsApp channel
Just a day before, on May 29, a tragic landslide in the Lal Ganesh area of Krishnanagar claimed the life of a two-year-old child. The landslide caused a guard wall to collapse due to heavy rains. Dilip Das, the father of the victim, was in the house with his family when the incident occurred. While Dilip and his wife managed to escape with injuries, the loss of their child has devastated the family and highlighted the dire need for evacuation and precautionary measures in vulnerable areas.
In light of these incidents, a source from the District Commissioner’s (DC) office told GPlus, "Residents living in Lichubagan, Borbari, Kharguli, Noonmati, Choonsali, Khanapara, Fatasil, Shantipur, Narakasur Pahar, and Chandmari Nabagraha Pahar are asked to evacuate and take precautionary measures."
The source emphasised that the authorities are actively monitoring all landslide-prone areas. "Our officials are monitoring all the landslide-prone areas and have asked the residents to evacuate and take precautionary measures. After the recent cyclone and several incidents of landslides where loss of lives were reported, we are keeping a vigilant eye on all these areas."
In response to the increasing risk of landslides, the district administration has taken several preventive measures. "Recently, the DA has also banned earth-cutting across Guwahati to avoid any landslide-like calamities," the source added. This ban is aimed at reducing the likelihood of landslides by preventing activities that destabilize the soil and terrain.
ALSO READ: Guwahati: House Collapses Due To Landslide In Chandmari
The recent landslides across Northeast India have underscored the importance of preparedness in landslide-prone areas. Authorities are urging residents to stay informed about weather forecasts and to heed evacuation warnings. Taking preventive measures, such as reinforcing structures and avoiding construction on unstable slopes, can significantly reduce the risk of damage and injury.
"We are working to ensure that all residents in vulnerable areas are aware of the risks and are taking the necessary steps to protect themselves and their families," said an official involved in the monitoring efforts.
ALSO READ: Child Dies In Guwahati Wall Collapse
The recent cyclone that hit the region has exacerbated the risk of landslides. Heavy rains have saturated the soil, making it more prone to shifting and collapsing. This has heightened the urgency for evacuation and other precautionary measures.
Talking to GPlus, a local meteorologist said, "After the recent cyclone, the soil has become very unstable in many areas. We are seeing more landslides and are very concerned about the safety of residents."