At least 12 people have died in a devastating landslide caused by the collapse of a stone quarry between Melthum and Hlimen in Aizawl district, Mizoram. Two more individuals perished in a separate landslide, and one body was recovered from a third location, bringing the total death toll to 15.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma reported to Scroll that 10 more persons are feared trapped under debris or swept away by floodwaters.
Accompanied by Home Minister K. Sapdanga, local legislators, and other officials, the Chief Minister visited two disaster sites in Aizawl city severely affected by the heavy rainfall from Cyclone Remal.
In response to the tragedy, Chief Minister Lalduhoma announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 15 crore for the victims, with Rs. 4 lakh to be given to the kin of each deceased.
Rescue operations were swiftly undertaken by emergency response teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).
As Cyclone Remal continues to impact Northeast India, multiple states have issued warnings about the severe weather conditions. Government offices and educational institutions have been ordered to close on Tuesday and Wednesday, except for those providing essential services.
The Manipur Education Department has mandated the closure of all schools not yet on summer vacation until May 31.
Similarly, the East Khasi Hills administration has advised residents to avoid tall structures due to the risk of collapse from strong winds and heavy rainfall. The Meghalaya government has also directed the closure of schools and colleges on May 28 to ensure citizen safety amidst the cyclone’s onslaught.