Eight feared killed, 70 evacuated in Meghalaya

Shillong, Jul 27 (UNI) At least eight people were feared killed and 70 evacuated from Rishipara area today following a major landslip, triggered by heavy rain in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills district.

The incident occurred just before noon when the rainfall was at its peak, West Garo district Deputy Commissioner P Sampath Kumar told UNI over the phone from Tura.

Mr Kumar said eight people were feared killed, while 70 had evacuated to relief camps following the landslide.

He said a team of civil defence, CRPF, police along with locals had launched a search operation for their bodies downstream.

Mr Kumar said further details were awaited.

Meanwhile, incessant rainfall during the four days had wreaked havoc in the state, causing landslides and snapping of road communication.

UNI