The Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) has directed all District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) to remain on high alert and intensify disaster preparedness 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 activate their respective District Emergency Operations Centres and prioritise the safety of residents by evacuating people from severely waterlogged, low-lying and landslide-prone areas wherever necessary.
The authority also directed district administrations to assess the availability of essential commodities, including food, fuel and medicines, and ensure adequate stocks are maintained during the ongoing emergency.
To strengthen response efforts, districts have been asked to mobilise coordinated emergency teams, maintain uninterrupted communication services and deploy earth-moving machinery, including excavators and JCBs, to clear landslide debris and restore connectivity on blocked highways and major roads.
The NSDMA further instructed authorities to coordinate with the Power Department to disconnect electricity supply in submerged areas where necessary to prevent electrocution and restore power once conditions are safe.
District administrations have also been directed to issue advisories on alternative travel routes, discourage non-essential movement along landslide-prone roads and caution the public against venturing near swollen rivers, streams and overflowing drains.
The authority appealed to citizens to rely only on official sources of information and refrain from circulating unverified reports or rumours that could create unnecessary panic.
The advisory comes as several parts of Nagaland, including Mon district and Tuli sub-division in Mokokchung district, continue to grapple with the impact of heavy monsoon rains, which have caused loss of lives, displacement of families and extensive damage to infrastructure.
In case of emergencies, the State Emergency Operations Centre can be contacted through the toll-free number 1070, emergency response number 112, or the SEOC Help Desk at 0370-2270129/30.