Climate change effect? Mizoram braces against devastating floods and landslides, 576 families evacuated

At least 576 families have been forced to evacuate to safer locations due to the floods and landslide

As relentless monsoon rains unleash havoc across Mizoram, at least 576 families have been forced to evacuate to safer locations due to the catastrophic floods and landslides that have gripped the state. The disaster, fueled by heavy and unrelenting rainfall, has prompted a coordinated response from the state’s Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Department officials.

The dire situation has primarily affected the Tlabung sub-division, situated near the Bangladesh border, which has borne the brunt of the monsoon’s fury. River Khawthlangtuipui’s deluge has led to the flooding of the sub-town, Tlabung, and its surrounding villages, displacing a staggering 509 families.

Additionally, landslides have further intensified the crisis, forcing 5 families out of their homes.

The impact of the floodwaters has been devastating, with the floodwaters even breaching the market area of Tlabung on Wednesday morning. A temporary respite in the rainfall later allowed the waters to recede to some extent.

Lunglei district, where Tlabung is located, has suffered extensive damage, with landslides obstructing 35 locations and causing road blockages.

However, 7 of these blockades have been cleared. Furthermore, the district has reported soil cracks and sinking in 7 different places, exacerbating the challenges posed by the ongoing disaster.

Amidst the chaos, at least 11 villages, in addition to the Tlabung sub-town, have felt the impact of the flooding, further underscoring the widespread devastation caused by the unforgiving monsoon.

Local authorities are grappling to respond effectively, as evidenced by an emergent meeting convened by Lunglei district deputy commissioner Ramdinliani. The meeting, which included representatives of the District Disaster Management Authority, focused on devising strategies to swiftly address the frequent blockades of National Highway no. 54 and 302, which have been consistently disrupted by landslides.

Across the border in Lawngtlai district, the rising waters of river Tuichawng have inundated Kamalanagar sub-town, the headquarters of the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC). This has resulted in the evacuation of 45 families to safer areas. Furthermore, in the Lawngtlai-III vicinity of Lawngtlai town, 17 families are being relocated due to sinking soil.

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