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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The meeting was attended by various departments and agencies
including the Police, Fire Services, DRDA, Geology and Mining, Assam Rifles,
DUCCF and GBs’ Union.
