In a devastating turn of events, a stone quarry collapse in the Melthum and Hlimen border area of Aizawl in Mizoram, has resulted in the loss of 14 lives, with fears lingering for more casualties, following the havoc unleashed by Cyclone Remal. The collapse occurred around 6 am on May 28, according to recent updates.
Amid the tragedy, a glimmer of hope emerged as one child was rescued from the rubble and promptly rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention. However, numerous other workers, predominantly non-tribals, remain trapped, heightening concerns for their safety as rescue operations persist.
Reports indicate that among the deceased, six are Mizos, three are non-Mizos, while the identities of others are yet to be ascertained. Additionally, the quarry collapse inflicted substantial damage to several adjacent houses, compounding the scope of the catastrophe.
Efforts to locate and extricate trapped individuals are underway, albeit hindered by relentless rainfall and recurring landslides in the area, as officials lamented the challenging conditions impeding rescue endeavours.
In the wake of the calamity, authorities have taken precautionary measures, closing all schools and instructing government employees to telecommute. Furthermore, vital transportation routes, including highways, have been disrupted by landslides, isolating Aizawl from the rest of the country following a landslide on National Highway 6 at Hunthar.
The impact of Cyclone Remal extends beyond infrastructure damage, with significant disruptions reported across various domains. Lengpui Airport faced closure due to a massive landslide, while multiple community cemeteries collapsed, affecting over 20 graveyards.
The cyclone’s ferocity led to the swelling of the Tlawng River, inundating houses in the Sairang locality, and causing the unfortunate loss of livestock in the Tlangnuam area.
Cyclone Remal, originating from the coasts of Bangladesh and West Bengal on May 26, culminated in its rampage through northeastern regions, leaving in its wake a trail of devastation and despair.
