Cloudburst damages life and property

SNS, Geyzing, 1 August 2013: Atleast 15 houses and huge tracts of agricultural lands have been damaged, and seven bridges washed away due to a sudden cloudburst over Upper Rimbi, 25 km of West District headquarter, Geyzing.Increase in water level of Sangkhola caused the flashflood. 

Nine out of 19 camps of Sasastra Seema Bal (SSB) at Sangkhola were totally swept away. The SSB jawans managed to save themselves, but their belongings and service rifles were washed away. Consequently, the increased level of Hiri Khola swept away damaged houses and the roads connecting Nambu village, Upper Rimbi with the other parts of the district. 

The villagers managed to escape but lost their properties, cattle and livestock. A number of public properties like RCC bridges, electric supply and water supply lines has been badly damaged. 

At Upper Rimbi, a total of 15 houses, including a church was damaged. The residents have been shifted to Upper Rimbi school. The destruction has also endangered Topok village on the opposite bank due to the landslide at the base of the village. 

As per reports, 30 families have been shifted to a relief camp at Topok primary school. Sangkhola Primary School and Upper Rimbi School has been closed indefinitely. 

The West District Collector, Mr L B Chettri who visited the affected areas said the 13 houses near Sangkhola were in danger and families have been evacuated to the nearest relief camp at Sangkhola Primary school. 

The state Land Revenue secretary, Mr K S Topgay and other officials also reached the spot and took stock of the situation. The victims will be given immediate ex-gratia tomorrow, the officials said.