Guwahati, March 17: A violent storm accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds struck West Karbi Anglong in the early hours of March 17, causing extensive damage to crops, property and infrastructure.
The storm hit around 2 am, affecting several villages under Kheroni Police Station, including Hawaipur, Jiribasa, Mailoo Bazar, Belbari, Watizor, Kheroni Charali, Gohagaon and Ranaima. Residents described it as one of the most intense storms in recent times, with powerful winds uprooting areca nut trees, coconut palms and other cash crops.
Standing wheat fields and vegetable farms were flattened, resulting in significant losses for farmers at a critical stage of cultivation. The damage has dealt a major setback to the agrarian community in the region.
The storm also disrupted power supply after electric poles were brought down and transmission lines snapped, plunging the affected areas into darkness. Restoration work is expected to take time due to the extent of the damage.
Several houses suffered damage, with tin roofs blown away and bamboo structures destroyed. In some cases, homes partially collapsed, forcing residents to move to safer locations. Roads were blocked by fallen trees and debris, although local residents began clearing pathways to restore connectivity.
No casualties have been reported so far, but the scale of damage to property and agriculture is considerable. Authorities are yet to conduct a full assessment, while relief and restoration efforts are expected to begin shortly as the administration continues to monitor the situation.
