Dimapur District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) convened an emergency meeting to review the district’s preparedness for the upcoming monsoon season on May 23.
According DIPR report, the meeting also served as the first Quarterly Review Meeting of the year and was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office Conference Hall, chaired by ADC Dimapur, Zakabo V. Rotokha.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Rotokha emphasized the need for proactive planning, coordinated response, and interdepartmental collaboration to tackle challenges such as flash floods, landslides, waterborne diseases, and infrastructure damage.
Officials from various departments provided updates on their respective preparedness measures. Food & Civil Supplies Department assured there was no shortage of essential commodities, particularly rice, maintaining adequate stock to ensure an uninterrupted supply during extreme weather.
Public Works Department (R&B and NH) reported ongoing inspections of roads and bridges, with arrangements made to access additional machinery from Chümoukedima when needed. Emergency contact numbers for public assistance will soon be circulated.
Health & Family Welfare Department informed that Dimapur has one district hospital and several functional Primary Health Centres (PHCs), with medical personnel undergoing training to manage vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue.
Given the risk of stagnant water accumulation, residents were advised to remain alert for symptoms of waterborne illnesses and heat stroke. Emergency medicines and oral rehydration salts (ORS) are well-stocked, with ORS distribution centers being set up across the district.
Concerns were also raised by the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) regarding potential water supply disruptions due to landslides or flash floods. The department is actively clearing riverbeds and distributing water testing kits to ensure safe drinking water. Local hardware shops have been approached for emergency assistance, and a request has been made for a dedicated water tanker for relief efforts.
Despite limited personnel, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) assured readiness, informing that although only 30 personnel are available for Dimapur, Niuland, and Chümoukedima, their team has been well-trained and equipped for emergency situations. Power Department warned that waterlogging could damage underground cables and transformers, urging residents to report any water accumulation near electrical installations.
Safety concerns over boulder mining in riverbeds were also addressed, with recommendations for warning signs and advisories in vulnerable areas to prevent accidents.
In an effort to improve sanitation and reduce flood risks, the meeting concluded with a decision to conduct a district-wide mass social work on May 31, 2025. Representatives from Police, Fire Services, DRDA, Geology & Mining, Assam Rifles, DUCCF, and GB’s Union attended the meeting.