Kohima DDMA reviews post-monsoon damage, road repairs, disaster preparedness, ASF cases, water and power concerns, and SDRF relief measures.
DIMAPUR — The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Kohima, reviewed the post-monsoon disaster situation, including road and infrastructure damage, relief measures and departmental preparedness, during its quarterly meeting held at the deputy commissioner’s office on September 25.
The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner and DDMA chairman B Henok Buchem, was informed that estimates and repair proposals for several damaged roads had been submitted to the state government and concerned central ministries for approval, a DIPR report stated.
The PWD (R&B) informed that bituminous work on the Jotsoma Bypass–Lerie Gate stretch is expected to begin after the monsoon. Road damage was also reported along the Jotsoma Bypass, the Kigwema-Chakhabama stretch and a 100-metre section near Zaru Bridge, for which repair proposals have been submitted and approval is awaited.
Regarding the sinking portion of the National Highway at Phesama, the meeting was informed that work by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) is scheduled to begin from Monday.
The affected stretch is expected to be made motorable by the latter part of November.
The Traffic Police highlighted increased congestion in Kohima town following the sinking of the T Khel Model Road, along with potholes at several locations following the monsoon. The condition of the road near the BSF camp, maintained by NHIDCL, was also discussed.
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The Veterinary & Animal Husbandry department reported six cases related to African Swine Fever (ASF) under disaster-related circumstances.
The affected cases did not have insurance coverage, while ASF vaccines are currently under trial. The department stressed the need to create awareness about the insurance verification process, including verification through photographs.
The Forest department informed the meeting that the possibility of wild elephant movement in the district could not be ruled out. The issue of wild boars affecting farmers in Kidima village was also discussed.
The Home Guards & Civil Defence department reported that training had been conducted and personnel were prepared to respond to disasters.
The meeting emphasised the need to maintain readiness, particularly for fire-related emergencies during the dry season. Matters concerning State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) relief were also reviewed.
Water supply and power-related concerns were also taken up. The Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) reported disruption in piped water distribution at Aradura water tank, while the Power department was asked to look into complaints regarding the high-tension line at Jakhama under the transmission and generation division.
The meeting further reviewed the update of the District Disaster Management Plan (DDMP) and the India Disaster Resource Network (IDRN), with concerned departments directed to take necessary follow-up action.