Incessant rains throw life out of gear in Meghalaya

Shillong: Incessant rains for the last 24 hours have thrown normal life in Khasi Hills and Garo Hills region of Meghalaya out of gear, officials said today.

At least 45 people moved to higher grounds here after rising waters of Umkhrah river inundated low-lying areas.

"Rescue operations kicked off early today. At least 45 people, mostly women and children, moved to higher grounds from the low-lying banks of Umkhrah river," East Khasi Hills district SP M Kharkrang told PTI.

Rising waters of Umkhrah inundated Polo Ground area, following which the district administration provided dry ration and drinking water to the affected people, he said.

Normal life was paralysed in several parts of the city as roads were inundated due to heavy rains. Several shops and business establishments were also shut.

Incessant rains affected normal life at many places and flood was reported in West Khasi Hills district and in the Garo Hills region as well.

In West Garo Hills district, all BDOs have been instructed to keep vigil and take precautionary measures, the officials said.

The meteorology department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall at several places of Meghalaya till August 24.