Landslide Closes Shillong-Dawki Road, Two Lives Lost

Tragic Landslide Incident in Pynursla

SHILLONG, April 22: Authorities in the Pynursla civil subdivision have shut down the Shillong-Dawki Road near Mawlieh following a landslide that resulted in the deaths of two individuals on Monday evening.

According to the Additional Deputy Commissioner, the incident claimed two lives and rendered the road unsafe for vehicles. The current weather conditions have made it hazardous to excavate rocks and soil from the hillside, increasing the risk of further landslides and rockslides, which could threaten lives and property.

The tragic event occurred when a large boulder and debris fell onto a Bolero pick-up truck, leading to the fatalities of the occupants.

The deceased have been identified as Teibor Khongthohrem and Wanbor Nianglang, both residents of Pynursla. In the aftermath of the landslide, the entire road segment has been blocked.

The Additional Deputy Commissioner stated that the Shillong-Dawki Road near Mawlieh is closed to all traffic due to ongoing rockslides that pose significant dangers to both commuters and workers. The closure will remain in effect until further notice.

This road is part of the 71.52-km Shillong-Dawki highway project, which is undergoing a substantial upgrade costing Rs 2,171 crore. The project aims to transform the road into a two-lane, paved shoulder road with four-lane segments to enhance connectivity to the Bangladesh border.

Despite continuous clearance efforts by the responsible company, new rockslides keep occurring. Commuters are advised to refrain from traveling through the affected area and to seek alternative routes until further updates are provided.