Nagaland conducted its annual earthquake disaster mock drill, the Nagaland Emergency Preparedness Exercise (NEPEx) 2024, on October 24. This exercise, simulating a 6.9 magnitude earthquake, involved coordination among various government departments and local agencies across all districts, aiming to enhance the state’s readiness for natural disasters. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to mitigate risks and improve response strategies in the face of potential seismic threats.
According to Advisor, NSDMA & NRE, Z Nyusietho Nyuthe, the mega mock drill exercise was conducted across the state to analyze the preparedness of the state, in case of any eventualities during disasters. Nyuthe said that the mock drill was completed successfully across the district headquarters and lauded the NDRF and the DDMA teams for their quick response in handling the situation during the exercise.
Senior Consultant (ME&IRS), NDMA, MHA Maj Gen Sudhir Bahl (Retd) said that Maj Gen Sudhir Bahl (Retd) said that the mock exercise included the following symptoms of landslides, fire and industrial incidents and that the exercise was conducted in a very professional manner and with various agencies and departments participating in it. Bhal also remarked that in disaster management there is always scope for improvement and suggestions on improving certain areas have been given to the state NSDMA and other departments.
Bhal also said that the NDRF has equipment and resources available which can be used in such disaster situations and the NSDMA must co-opt these resources in the grants if unfortunately, there is a disaster. Bhal also suggested to look for methods and ways to improve the medical capacity in case of major disasters because in this particular scenario, the medical capability was completely inadequate to deal with the casualties. He also complimented the NSDMA and other agencies for professionally and successfully conducting the event.
As part of the exercise, several districts executed drills to assess their preparedness. In Kohima, the drill took place at five key locations, including Government Middle School (Bayavü), the Directorate of Industries & Commerce office, Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK), Miachieo Lhithochü, and Sanuorü Bridge. A central control room was established at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, while a relief camp was set up at Indira Gandhi Stadium to assist simulated victims. Various departments participated in responding to simulated emergencies, including casualties from collapsed buildings and fires. Despite the successful execution, challenges such as transportation delays, communication issues, and equipment shortages were identified.
In Dimapur, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) conducted the drill at seven locations, including Dimapur Government College and Pantaloons Shopping Mall. The exercise simulated multiple emergency scenarios, reporting casualties and injuries, with efforts to evacuate affected individuals amidst heavy traffic congestion.
Mokokchung’s drill involved scenarios of landslides and structural collapses at sites such as Longkumer Kilem and Lenjem Hospital. The Emergency Medical Camp was set up at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, where injured victims were provided aid. Deputy Commissioner Thsuvisie Phoji commended the active participation of officials and volunteers.
Wokha district simulated various disaster scenarios, including building collapses and fire incidents at five locations. Deputy Commissioner Vineet Kumar praised the teamwork displayed during the drill, emphasizing the importance of practical execution.
In Noklak, the mock exercise was conducted in collaboration with local authorities and involved multiple sites, including the District Hospital and Kiamong Landslide area. The exercise reinforced the significance of disaster preparedness among stakeholders.
Peren conducted a comprehensive drill simulating landslides and structural damage across several incident sites, reporting four fatalities and numerous injuries.
Tseminyu’s drill focused on massive landslides resulting from the simulated earthquake, while Kiphire conducted an extensive exercise involving search and rescue operations across multiple locations. ADC Kiphire Longdiba L Sangtam encouraged participants to prepare thoroughly for potential disasters.
Longleng’s exercise followed the Incident Response System guidelines, emphasizing collaboration among departments. After the drill, Deputy Commissioner W. Manpai Phom chaired a review meeting, highlighting areas for improvement.
Tuensang’s drill, involving key locations like the Daily Market and DC’s office, showcased coordinated efforts among local agencies, with a focus on timely evacuations and rescues. Deputy Commissioner Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa emphasized the need for continued cooperation.
Finally, Phek’s mock drill involved active participation from SDRF and Aapda Mitra Volunteers, successfully executing rescue operations at incident sites. The Deputy Commissioner commended the collective efforts of all participants and identified areas for further enhancement.