Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has highlighted the pressing climate change issues confronting Meghalaya, particularly in the aftermath of his inspection tour of flood-affected areas in Garo Hills. Witnessing firsthand the devastation caused by recent flooding, he expressed concern over the impact on low-lying plain belt areas, affecting approximately 32,000 residents in recent weeks. The flooding in Garo Hills has been exacerbated by increased Brahmaputra River levels due to heavy rains in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and neighboring regions. Chief Minister Sangma attributed these challenges to the alternating El Nino and La Nina weather patterns observed in 2024, causing global fluctuations in temperature and precipitation.
Emphasizing the severity of the situation, Sangma noted significant shifts in temperature and rainfall intensity and frequency. “Meghalaya now faces more frequent cloud bursts and heavy rainfall events, making adaptation complex,” he stated. In preparation for these climatic shifts, the Meghalaya government has been proactive, conducting preparatory meetings chaired by the Chief Minister over the past few months. These meetings aimed to strategize for potential weather-related emergencies and mitigate the anticipated impacts of El Nino and La Nina.
Addressing inquiries regarding the ongoing Brahmaputra River dredging project, aimed at mitigating flood risks, Sangma acknowledged the project’s ongoing nature and emphasized that its full benefits will only be realized upon completion. He urged continued patience and effort in this regard.
