SHILLONG : The Meghalaya government has placed all district administrations on high alert, with disaster response teams kept on standby to tackle any emergency situation across the state, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said on Saturday.
Speaking on the state’s preparedness, Rymbui asserted that Meghalaya is fully equipped to handle all types of disaster-related situations. He said that with advancements in technology, authorities are now better positioned to anticipate and respond to potential threats before they escalate.
Although the minister did not provide a detailed state-wide situation report, he confirmed that all district-level officials, including Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) and Deputy Commissioners (DCs), have been directed to remain alert and ready to respond immediately to any crisis.
Highlighting the state’s decentralized disaster management system, Rymbui said that district magistrates have been given full authority to take necessary action. He stressed that disaster response is not controlled centrally but is handled at the district level to ensure faster and more effective action on the ground.
He further stated that Meghalaya has adequate manpower to deal with emergencies, with teams from the police, fire services, home guards, and other agencies working in coordination. The minister also appreciated the cooperation of the public, noting that community support plays a crucial role in disaster management efforts.
Rymbui pointed out that disasters are not limited to natural causes such as heavy rainfall or earthquakes but also include man-made incidents and accidents. He emphasized the importance of assessing environmental factors like hill stability, deforestation, and infrastructure risks as part of a comprehensive disaster preparedness strategy.
On the issue of funding, the minister clarified that Deputy Commissioners are empowered to act swiftly in emergency situations and can request additional support from the state government if required.
Reiterating the government’s readiness, Rymbui expressed hope that no major disaster would occur but assured that all necessary mechanisms are in place to respond effectively if needed.