DIMAPUR, JULY 31 (MExN): Nagaland Chief Secretary, Temjen Toy today said that the state is under “emergency-like- situation” and many district headquarters including the state capital Kohima are threatened to be cut off completely.
Toy was addressing an emergency meeting of high ranking officials on July 31 to take stock of the alarming situation arising out of unremitting monsoon rain in the state. The incessant rain over the past one month had devastated the state as there were reports of heavy damage to major roads, loss of properties and agriculture. Many major roads connecting district headquarters and other major towns have been cut off.
A DIPR report cited the Chief Secretary calling upon all officials to gear up more efforts to see that major roads connecting district headquarters are not completely cut off. He said concerned department should ensure that at least one life-line is maintained to connect the towns. He also discussed on impending danger of shortage of essential commodities and fuel.
Reviewing the road connectivity between Kohima and Dimapur, Toy urged the PWD officers to deploy adequate manpower and machinery to tackle landslides and road sinking. The Chief Secretary informed that he is in touch with top army officers and other agencies to get their assistance if needed. If necessary, airdropping of essential commodities will be sought in those areas completely cut off for days, Toy said.
The Chief Secretary meanwhile expressed concern at the blockage of water at the Sidzu River, to which the NSDMA informed that precautionary measures have been taken. He asked the NSDMA to ensure that there is no loss of live or to at least minimise the damage by way of taking adequate pre-emptive measure.
“I strongly urge all agencies to remain united and alert. The onus at this time of emergency is not only with few departments such as NPWD, NSDMA, administration and police,” he exhorted.
State Commissioner M Patton meanwhile said that as per reports from the DCs, the situation is alarming and coordinated action is the need of the hour. He also called for round the clock updates on the situation.
DGP Nagaland, John Longkumer informed that information has been sent to all SPs and Battalion Headquarters to remain on the move to extend all assistance.
