NSDMA activates emergency response across Nagaland, ordering evacuations and preparedness measures as monsoon rains trigger floods and landslides statewide
DIMAPUR — The Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) has directed all District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) to remain on high alert and activate their respective District Emergency Operations Centres (DEOCs) as incessant rainfall continues to trigger landslides, flash floods and widespread waterlogging across the state.
In an order issued on Sunday, the NSDMA instructed district authorities to accord top priority to the safety of residents and undertake immediate preventive and response measures in view of the deteriorating weather situation.
It directed all DDMAs to evacuate residents from severely waterlogged, low-lying and landslide-prone areas, including unstable embankments and riverbanks, and to ensure coordinated emergency response by keeping rescue teams on standby.
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District administrations have also been asked to assess the availability of essential commodities, including food, fuel and medicines, and ensure adequate stocks are maintained throughout the emergency period.
The NSDMA further directed authorities to keep communication systems operational, establish rapid communication wherever required, and deploy heavy machinery to clear landslides and debris from blocked highways and major roads to restore connectivity.
To prevent accidents, it instructed DDMAs to coordinate with Power department for temporary shutdown of electricity supply in submerged areas wherever necessary and restore services promptly once floodwaters recede.
District administrations have also been asked to issue public advisories identifying alternative routes and restricting non-essential travel on vulnerable and landslide-prone stretches.
The NSDMA urged the public to stay away from swollen rivers, overflowing drains and streams, and advised against fishing, swimming or lingering near riverbanks during the current spell of heavy rain.
It also appealed to citizens to rely only on official information and refrain from sharing unverified messages or rumours on social media that could trigger unnecessary panic.
The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) remains operational and can be contacted through its toll-free helpline 1070, emergency response number 112, or the SEOC help desk at 0370-2270129/30.