Nongpoh, July 28: The Deputy Commissioner of Ri Bhoi District, Dr. Abhishek Saini, has ordered the closure of a section of Gorkha Nepali Secondary School in Borbhuin Village after a landslide left part of the campus structurally unsafe, as authorities warned that continuing monsoon rains could trigger further slope failures.
The order, issued on Monday by Dr. Saini in his capacity as Chairperson of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), follows an inspection that found the rear portion of the school vulnerable after a landslide on July 20 damaged the surrounding area and the road leading to the village. While the affected section has been closed indefinitely, the remainder of the school may continue functioning, provided it is certified safe for academic and administrative activities.
In the order, Dr. Saini said persistent rainfall had significantly increased the risk of additional landslides and slope failures, necessitating immediate preventive measures to safeguard students, staff, nearby residents and public infrastructure. The directive was issued under Sections 30 and 34 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
Also read: Street Vendors Of Jail Road and Polo Shifted To Two Vending Zones In Shillong
School authorities have been instructed to barricade the unsafe portion of the building, display warning notices and prevent access to the restricted area. They have also been directed to inform parents, students and staff about the safety measures now in force.
The administration has tasked the Public Works Department with clearing debris and restoring road connectivity in coordination with the local Dorbar Shnong once weather conditions permit. Residents of Borbhuin and neighbouring Nongkylla Khasi have meanwhile been advised to remain vigilant and relocate to safer places if necessary, while the public has been urged to avoid the landslide-hit area except for essential travel.
Police, civil authorities and other government agencies have also been instructed to assist with evacuations, regulate traffic and monitor the situation until the area is declared safe. The order took effect immediately and will remain in force until further notice.
Also watch
