Preparedness, coordination tested at Wokha mock drill under NEPEx

Personnel and volunteers during the district-level mock drill simulating a 7.7 magnitude earthquake conducted in Wokha on April 30. (Morung Photo)

Morung Express News
Wokha | April 30

A district-level mock drill simulating a 7.7 magnitude earthquake was conducted in Wokha on April 30 as part of the National Earthquake Preparedness Exercise (NEPEx). The exercise was organised by the District Administration and the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) to enhance preparedness, coordination and response mechanisms among various departments in the event of a major earthquake.

The exercise began with the sounding of an emergency siren, following which command staff assembled at the District Emergency Operations Centre (DEOC) and activated the Incident Response System (IRS). All departments shifted to wireless communication while Emergency Response Teams, including Aapda Mitra volunteers, were mobilised to designated sites.

As part of the drill, multiple emergency scenarios were simulated across the district, including fire incidents, building collapse, search and rescue operations, evacuation of injured persons, and a landslide situation. Teams comprising SDRF, Fire & Emergency Services, Home Guards & Civil Defence, and medical personnel carried out coordinated rescue and evacuation efforts.

 

Mock operations were conducted at key locations such as Police Point, District Economics & Statistics Office, Dr Nchumbemo Clinic at PWD Colony, Saron Colony near AH&V Office, Santsuo School, and Doyang Dam. These scenarios involved simulated casualties, including injured individuals and deaths, as well as evacuation of differently-abled persons.

Medical teams provided first aid at the sites and shifted casualties to designated relief camps, while traffic personnel ensured smooth movement of emergency vehicles. A staging area was set up at the Local Ground with logistical support including tents, ambulances, fire tenders, and communication equipment.

Following the completion of field operations, team leaders reported to the Incident Commander, who in turn briefed the Deputy Commissioner. The exercise concluded with demobilisation, observer feedback, and closing remarks by the Deputy Commissioner.



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