Torrential rainfall has wreaked havoc across various parts of Meghalaya, triggering massive landslides, causing major rivers to swell rapidly, and resulting in widespread destruction. The severe weather has created an immediate crisis on key transit routes, cutting off crucial connectivity and causing panic among residents in low-lying and riverine areas.
The most catastrophic impact was felt along the Shillong–Dawki National Highway, which has been completely cut off and closed to all traffic. A massive landslide and severe road collapse occurred near Laitlyngkot village, along the Laitlyngkot–Lyngkyrdem stretch. Heavy rainfall and powerful torrents of water severely eroded and washed away the entire section of road, causing it to collapse into the deep gorge below. The damaged stretch falls under Package 2 of the Shillong–Tamabil road project.
Beyond the highway collapse, the relentless downpour has caused rivers across different regions of the state to flood, with the situation particularly severe in areas such as Mawlieh, Khohyiar and Lad Massar. On Sunday, the iconic Umngot River in Dawki rose at an alarming rate, sparking fear among local residents. Video footage from the area showed the river swelling rapidly and completely submerging a camp set up for labourers working on the new bridge project.
The sudden deluge also submerged heavy machinery and construction equipment, including a JCB excavator that was swept away by the rising waters. Commuters and residents have been advised to closely monitor weather alerts issued by the India Meteorological Department and to dial 112 for emergency assistance.
The East Khasi Hills District Administration was alerted to the disaster, which occurred at Chainage 25+200. The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited informed authorities that rebuilding the washed-out section of the highway would require extensive restoration and repair work, which is expected to take several days.
In the interest of public safety and to prevent any untoward incidents, the Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills District, Abhilash Baranwal, issued an official order imposing an immediate closure of the Shillong–Dawki road. The highway remains closed to all public and vehicular movement beyond Laitlyngkot village with immediate effect and until further notice.
Members of the public, including tourists, have been strongly advised to avoid travelling along the Shillong–Dawki road beyond Laitlyngkot village while the closure remains in force. For those who must travel to Dawki, the administration has designated two alternative diversion routes: Shillong–Sohra–Sohbar–Dawki and Shillong–Jowai–Amlarem–Dawki.
Travellers have been directed to strictly adhere to these diversions and follow all instructions issued by police, traffic personnel and highway officials on duty. The administration has urged the public to plan their journeys in advance, allow for significant additional travel time, and cooperate fully with authorities to ensure smooth traffic management. The district administration has also expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by the closure.
