The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Mokokchung, in partnership with the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), is set to conduct the 8th Edition of the Nagaland Emergency Preparedness Exercise (NEPEx) on April 30, 2026.

The exercise, scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM, will simulate a dual-disaster scenario involving a major earthquake and extreme weather events. Identified drill sites include: Government High School, Dilong; Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital (IMDH); The Deputy Commissioner’s Office Building; Landslide clearance operations at Mokokchung Village.

Special Evening Drill: "Operation Night Guard"

In a significant addition to the day’s activities, a second mock exercise titled "Operation Night Guard – Civil Defence Air Raid/Blackout Exercise" will take place starting at 6:30 PM.

This evening drill is designed to test Civil Defence preparedness. During this time, sirens will be activated across the town. The DDMA has requested all citizens to switch off non-essential lights, including inverters and external lighting, for 15 minutes once the sirens sound. This temporary blackout is a critical component of the drill to test emergency response systems and public cooperation.

The Deputy Commissioner & Chairman of DDMA Mokokchung, Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS, has issued a Public Advisory urging citizens Not to Panic during the mock exercise and further appeal for cooperation. He clarified that these activities are strictly mock exercises aimed at strengthening the district's disaster response mechanism and inter-agency coordination.

Residents are urged not to panic or be alarmed by the siren activations or the presence of emergency services. These exercises are vital for enhancing the readiness of the district to handle real-life emergencies and ensure public safety.

(Zuchumo Kithan, IA Mokokchung)