Landslides in Meghalaya disrupt road traffic

SHILLONG: Landslides on National Highway 44 in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills, connecting Tripura, Mizoram and Assam's Barak valley with the rest of the country, disrupted traffic flow today but no untoward incident was reported.

There were minor landslides at Tongseng, Ratacherra and Dona area along the NH-44 affecting smooth traffic flow for sometime, district SP S Thamar told PTI.

He said the quick response team comprising police and the district officials cleared the debris on time.

The district authorities have also warned road users to be alert for loose soil and stones falling in view of the incessant rainfall in the state.

The IMD has forecast heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in isolated places in Meghalaya and Assam till August 24 following which emergency response teams have been kept on standby in all districts and sub-divisions.

Meanwhile, landslides also disrupted flow of traffic in the Garo Hills region which is still reeling under the last year's flood and landslides.

A major landslide near Sibbari in South Garo Hills district blocked NH-62 and minor landslides were also reported in North Garo Hills district. Road clearance parties swung into action and restored normal traffic flow.