Shillong, June 23: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has directed all government departments to accelerate preparations to address the potential impacts of the El Niño phenomenon. He emphasized that proactive measures are the best defense against climate uncertainties.
While chairing a meeting of the Meghalaya Climate Council at the State Guest House, Sangma reviewed the state’s readiness and response strategies. Forecasts indicate a likelihood of developing El Niño conditions, which are often associated with disruptions in monsoon patterns, reduced rainfall, prolonged droughts, and pressure on water resources and agriculture.
The Chief Minister acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the precise effects of El Niño on Meghalaya but stressed that the government cannot wait for adverse weather conditions to take action. He stated that preparations must be made in advance, ensuring that each department’s responsibilities and timelines are clearly defined. Sangma instructed officials to strengthen coordination and monitoring mechanisms across all sectors.
The meeting also reviewed rainfall trends across the state, groundwater recharge, soil moisture levels, sensitive agricultural areas, and assessments of water availability.
Sangma identified water security as a critical area requiring immediate attention and called for the swift implementation of soil and water conservation projects. He directed departments to focus on desilting and renovating ponds and reservoirs, constructing water conservation structures, groundwater recharge initiatives, and watershed protection measures over the next six to twelve months.
Emphasizing community involvement, Chief Minister Sangma stated that climate change preparedness should transform into a people’s movement, engaging village institutions, self-help groups, and local communities. He urged citizens to actively participate in water conservation and ecosystem protection efforts.
The Chief Minister also reviewed preparations in the agricultural sector, instructing officials to ensure timely availability of seeds and planting materials, strengthen irrigation support, and promote climate-resilient agricultural practices.
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