Nongpoh, Oct 2: A major landslide struck an Indian Oil petrol pump, known as Refil Centre, at 10th Mile along National Highway-27 towards Khanapara in Ri Bhoi district at around 3 a.m. on Friday, causing extensive damage to the petrol pump and a parked bus.
A large quantity of earth and rocks suddenly came crashing down onto the petrol pump, damaging its machinery, solar light poles and office building. The debris also buried a bus parked at the site, damaging its equipment and engine.
Fortunately, no injuries or casualties were reported in the incident. However, the landslide caused significant property damage.
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The incident has also raised concerns over hill cutting in the area and the potential risks it poses to public safety. The circumstances surrounding the hill cutting may require examination by the concerned authorities.
According to the petrol pump manager, small portions of soil had initially started falling while vehicles were passing and workers were carrying out their duties. At around 3 a.m., however, a large portion of the hill suddenly collapsed.
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He said it was fortunate that the incident occurred in the early morning when vehicular movement was limited, preventing any loss of life. The main damage was reported to the petrol pump and the bus parked at the site overnight.
