Heavy Rainfall Triggers Flooding and Landslides in Kolasib District
Severe Weather Conditions in Kolasib
A representational image of a landslide (Photo: IANS)
Aizawl, Sept 3: Prolonged rainfall has heightened the risk of flooding, landslides, and road blockages in various regions of Kolasib district, prompting the evacuation of families from at-risk areas. Reports indicate damage to homes and infrastructure.
The Mizoram Disaster Management and Rehabilitation (DM&R) Department has confirmed that at least 13 families from Saihapui ‘K’, located near the Assam border, have been relocated to safer areas due to rising water levels in the Tuichhuahen river.
Officials from the Kolasib district administration highlighted that waterlogging is a significant concern for residents. Additionally, several families in the nearby North Chawnpui area have vacated their homes due to fears of flooding, allegedly linked to the overflowing of the dam at the 12-MW Serlui ‘B’ Small Hydro Electricity Project. However, officials clarified that no such overflow has occurred and attributed the panic to misinformation circulating on social media.
“After viewing videos, including AI-generated content depicting severe flash floods in Nepal, local residents have become increasingly anxious,” remarked a district official.
In a related incident, a house in the Khuangpuilam area of Kolasib town was entirely destroyed by a significant landslide, although no injuries were reported as the building was being used for temporary accommodation.
In Pangbalkawn village, three families were evacuated following landslides at two sites that left their homes in a dangerous state. These landslides also obstructed a road and damaged a low-tension electricity pole.
The recent events are part of a broader disruption caused by heavy and ongoing monsoon rains affecting Mizoram over the last few days.
DM&R officials noted that reports of rain-related damages are still coming in from various regions of the state. Landslides and rockfalls have blocked highways and other routes at multiple locations, creating challenges for drivers and commuters.
The adverse weather conditions have also interrupted electricity and telecommunications in certain areas, with authorities actively monitoring vulnerable sites.