Dimapur holds pre-monsoon preparedness meeting

Zakabo V Rotokha presiding over the DDMA meeting on pre-monsoon preparedness in Dimapur on Friday.

• DIMAPUR — To assess and enhance the district’s readiness for the upcoming monsoon season, the Dimapur District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) held an emergency meeting on Friday at the conference hall of the deputy commissioner’s office.
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• The additional deputy commissioner (ADC) of Dimapur, Zakabo V Rotokha, who also chaired the meeting, highlighted the importance of proactive planning, interdepartmental coordination and rapid response mechanisms to address potential challenges arising from natural calamities such as flash floods, landslides, waterborne diseases and infrastructure damage.
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• A DIPR report stated that different departments have updated on their preparedness. The Food and Civil Supplies Department reported that there is no shortage of essential commodities like rice in the district. It was informed that adequate stock has been maintained to ensure uninterrupted supply even during extended weather disruptions.

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• The Public Works Department (R&B and NH) informed that routine checks on roads and bridges are ongoing. Although Dimapur currently has only one excavator, coordination with Chümoukedima district is in place to access additional machinery if needed, it was informed.
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• The Health and Family Welfare Department reported that Dimapur has one district hospital and several fully functional primary health centres (PHCs). It was informed that training sessions are being conducted for medical personnel to manage vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue.
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• Citizens are asked to be vigilant against symptoms of waterborne illnesses and heat stroke. It further informed that ORS and emergency medicines are well stocked and ORS distribution centres are being set up across the district.
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• The Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) raised concerns about possible ruptures in the main water supply line due to landslides or flash floods. The department informed that it is currently undertaking unclogging operations in riverbeds and distributing water testing kits to ensure safe drinking water.
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• The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) informed that only 30 personnel are available to cover Dimapur, Niuland and Chümoukedima. Despite being short-staffed, it was informed that the team is well-trained and their equipment are in working condition, although limited in number.
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• The Power department warned that water logging could damage underground cables and transformers. They urged the public to report any water accumulation near electrical installations. The department also informed that it could temporarily disconnect power supply during storms to avoid electrocution and fire hazards.
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• The members also addressed safety concerns related to boulder mining in riverbeds. It has suggested local colonies and village councils to install warning signs and advisories in vulnerable areas to prevent accidents.
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• The meeting also decided to conduct a district-wide mass social work tentatively on May 31. The social work would focus on cleaning clogged drains and culverts, clearing garbage and ensuring overall neighbourhood cleanliness.
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• The ADC has urged all departments and community members to actively participate in the drive, emphasising that public cooperation is crucial in disaster preparedness and prevention.
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• The meeting was attended by various departments and agencies including the Police, Fire Services, DRDA, Geology and Mining, Assam Rifles, DUCCF and GBs’ Union.