HORROR IN SOLAI

The nation woke up to the tragic news that a dam had burst after heavy rains yesterday night. As of now, the death toll is yet to be confirmed as search and rescue operations are still underway. Questions are still being asked as to how such a thing could happen yet there was warning after warning issued before this tragedy happened.

Was someone negligent? How could a foreigner (Patel according to Media reports) build an illegal dam despite protests by the locals who complained of water shortages(caused by this illegal structure) and whether it met the safety standards. In fact, word has it that the 'investor' had bought off the leaders who initially raised concern over the ticking time-bomb that was the dam.

Now what the people had feared has happened. The dam walls could not withstand the ferocity of the waters and caved in, allowing millions of litres of water to pour downstream and ravage the helpless villagers. Mother Nature has no mercy at all. The pictures of washed up cars covered in mud and bodies of children have been making rounds of social media.

Predictably, the knee-jerk reactions by the authorities has been unfolding with several leaders including the area MP and Governor visiting the scene of disaster. This morning, the CS Interior has made his visit there and pledges of action has been made. 

Will the foreigner face justice for the disaster or will he simply get away with it? Will the displaced people get compensated after their homes, farms and businesses got destroyed by the raging floods? Let's wait and see. 

NB-The usual column will resume tomorrow.