Heavy winds, hailstorm lash Assam’s Boko; flatten homes, uproot power lines

A powerful storm accompanied by hailstorm unleashed widespread devastation across several areas in Assam's Boko on March 16, leaving a trail of destruction in more than 30 villages and affecting numerous families.

Residents were caught off guard as gale-force winds battered homes, uprooted electric poles, and destroyed essential infrastructure. The sudden intensity of the weather event resulted in extensive damage to property, though no loss of life has been reported so far.

In Bhehua village, three houses belonging to one Niranjan Boro were completely flattened by the storm. Despite the scale of destruction, the family members narrowly escaped unharmed, in what locals described as a “miraculous survival.”

The storm also caused significant damage to small businesses and essential supply points. The tin roof of Kshirod Choudhury’s fair price shop was blown away by the high winds, exposing government-distributed rice and other essential commodities to damage and loss.

Residents across affected areas reported that household belongings, livestock shelters, and stored goods were severely impacted as the storm swept through during the night hours. The absence of advance warning compounded the vulnerability of families, many of whom struggled to secure their homes in time.

Among the worst-hit areas were Tepesia, Dakuapara, Auniati, Kaithapara, Bhehua, Katol Gaon, Bakarapara, Poyranga, Khamar, Kaliabari, Narenga, and Bhalukghata, where large-scale destruction has been reported. Several electric poles were uprooted, disrupting power supply and further complicating relief efforts.

Local residents have called for immediate assistance and restoration measures, including emergency shelter, repair of power infrastructure, and compensation for losses incurred.

Authorities are yet to release an official assessment of the damage, but preliminary reports indicate that the scale of destruction could be substantial, given the number of villages affected and the extent of infrastructural damage.