BYRNIHAT : Mawkyrwat MLA Renikton L. Tongkhar on Wednesday visited Pahamlang 17 Mer in Byrnihat to inspect areas affected by flooding and meet residents who have been facing problems due to waterlogging.
The visit came after flood-affected families from the area, along with the Ri Bhoi People’s Council (RBPC), recently submitted a memorandum to the Ri Bhoi Deputy Commissioner seeking assistance and urging authorities to inspect the site.
The residents had reportedly alleged that earth-cutting activities in the area had obstructed the natural flow of water, contributing to the flooding.
During his visit, Tongkhar, who is also the owner of the land in question, met with local residents and discussed the issue with them. Officials from the Ri Bhoi district administration, the Public Works Department (PWD), the Rangbah Shnong and members of the local community were also present.
Addressing the residents, Tongkhar denied allegations that work being carried out on his land was responsible for the flooding.
He said that no construction work had yet started at the site and claimed that he had instead taken steps to improve the drainage system by constructing a drain and installing Hume pipes to facilitate the proper flow of water.
The MLA further said he had spent several lakh rupees to improve the drainage and regulate the flow of water, despite the measures causing financial losses to him.
However, he urged residents to remain cautious, warning that further heavy rainfall before the drainage work is completed could potentially lead to waterlogging and flooding in the area again.
The visit comes amid concerns among residents of Pahamlang over recurring waterlogging and the need for effective drainage measures to prevent further disruption during heavy rainfall.