On October 24, 2024, the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) conducted its annual Nagaland Emergency Preparedness Exercise (NEPEx) 2024 across Kohima, simulating a large-scale earthquake scenario with a magnitude of 6.9. The mock drill, aimed at assessing the preparedness and coordination of emergency teams, was carried out at five key locations, including Government Middle School (Bayavü), Directorate of Industries & Commerce office, Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK), Miachieo Lhithochü, and Sanuorü Bridge.

A central control room was set up at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, with the High School Ground designated as the staging area for emergency responders. Additionally, a relief camp was established at Indira Gandhi Stadium to provide shelter and aid to simulated victims.

The drill involved critical teams from various departments, including the administration, police, firefighters, medical personnel, and other stakeholders. They responded to multiple simulated emergencies, such as casualties from collapsed buildings, fires, and urgent medical cases. The goal was to evaluate the effectiveness of the emergency response in real-time situations.

Despite the successful execution, some challenges were noted, such as transportation delays, communication issues due to a lack of walkie-talkies, insufficient equipment, inaudible sirens, and the need for better identification through batch usage.

                                                                               (Molungnenla, IA Kohima)