Conrad Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, on Sunday held a review meeting with senior officials to assess the damage caused by a severe hailstorm that struck several parts of the state, particularly in and around Tura.
The meeting was attended by the Chief Secretary, the Commissioner and Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, and Deputy Commissioners of the affected districts.
During the meeting, Sangma directed officials to closely monitor the situation on the ground and ensure that immediate relief and assistance are provided to households affected by the storm. He also instructed district administrations to take urgent measures to restore essential services such as electricity and water supply at the earliest.
A powerful hailstorm hit Tura and surrounding areas at around 3 AM on Sunday, causing widespread damage to homes, vehicles and crops. According to reports, the storm was the third spell of severe weather to strike the region during the night.
Residents said the hailstones were unusually large, with some reportedly as big as golf balls. The intense hailstorm lasted for about 20 minutes, pelting the town and surrounding localities.
Several tin-roofed houses were damaged after the heavy hail punctured roofing sheets, while a number of vehicles parked along roadsides and in open compounds without protective cover also sustained damage.
Officials have been asked to remain vigilant and coordinate with local authorities to conduct a detailed assessment of the damage and ensure timely assistance for those affected by the hailstorm.
