Meghalaya still uses runners to carry messages

SHILLONG: Faced with the challenges of a difficult terrain, heavy rainfall and lack of mobile connectivity while conducting polls in the remote areas of the northeast, the Meghalaya election department has engaged 10 long distance “runners” to act as links to polling stations in the Ranikor constituency. Chief Electoral Officer FR Kharkongor said, “Ten runners from villages in the Ranikor constituency, which has made a name for its long-distance runners have been engaged to carry messages to and from the district election office and far-flung polling stations.” They will make four pre-scheduled rounds. Deputy Commissionerof South West Khasi Hills and District Election Officer, Isawanda Laloo said, “Metal topping on roads leading to some of the polling stations have been washed away completely by heavy rainfall. Mobile networks also barely function.” She added some polling stations are located more than 0 km from the district headquarters.