Shillong, June 23 (IANS) Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday directed all government departments to intensify preparedness measures and convert contingency plans into actionable interventions as the state braces for the potential impacts of an anticipated El Nino event, stressing that “preparation before a crisis emerges is the best defence against climate uncertainties.”

Chairing a meeting of the Meghalaya Climate Council at the State Guest House in Shillong, Sangma reviewed the state’s preparedness and response strategy amid forecasts indicating the possible development of El Nino conditions, a climate phenomenon often associated with disruptions in monsoon patterns, reduced rainfall, prolonged dry spells and stress on water resources and agriculture.

The Chief Minister said that while the precise impact of El Nino on Meghalaya remains uncertain, the government cannot afford to wait for adverse weather conditions to emerge before taking action. “We must prepare in advance and ensure that every department has clearly defined responsibilities and timelines,” Sangma said, directing officials to strengthen coordination and monitoring mechanisms across sectors.

The meeting reviewed assessments on rainfall trends, groundwater recharge, soil moisture levels, vulnerable agricultural zones and water availability across the state.

Sangma identified water security as a key area requiring immediate intervention and called for accelerated implementation of soil and water conservation projects. He directed departments to focus on desiltation and restoration of ponds and reservoirs, construction of water harvesting structures, groundwater recharge initiatives and catchment area protection measures over the next six to twelve months.

Emphasising community participation, CM Sangma said climate preparedness should be transformed into a people’s movement involving 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 the agriculture sector preparedness and instructed officials to ensure the timely availability of seeds and planting materials while strengthening irrigation support and promoting climate-resilient farming practices.

Officials from the India Meteorological Department briefed the meeting on current forecasts and early warning systems.

Sangma directed departments to enhance the dissemination of weather advisories through social media and community networks.

The meeting also reviewed contingency plans related to drinking water supply, food security, disaster preparedness and ecosystem conservation, with the Chief Minister stressing that safeguarding livelihoods, agriculture and water resources must remain the state’s top priority.

–IANS

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