In view of continued rainfall and the possibility of waterlogging and flooding in low-lying and vulnerable areas, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Dimapur, has issued a public advisory urging residents to remain alert and take necessary precautions.
The advisory, issued by Deputy Commissioner & Chairman, DDMA Dimapur, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, NCS, cautioned the public to closely monitor any unusual or rapid rise in water levels in nearby drains, nallahs and other water channels.
Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall, particularly through waterlogged and flood-prone areas. The DDMA also warned people against attempting to cross flooded roads, overflowing drains, culverts, nallahs or fast-flowing water, either on foot or by vehicle.
Parents have been urged to keep children away from rivers, drains, nallahs, culverts and flooded areas, especially during and immediately after heavy rainfall. Motorists have been advised to exercise extreme caution, particularly at night and during heavy rain, as the depth and condition of waterlogged roads may not be clearly visible.
The advisory further cautioned residents to stay away from electric poles, fallen electrical lines, weak structures, damaged buildings and fallen trees during periods of heavy rainfall and flooding.
People residing in low-lying and vulnerable areas have been asked to remain prepared to move to safer locations if the situation warrants or if advised by the authorities. Residents have also been advised to keep essential items, emergency medicines, important documents, drinking water, mobile phones and communication devices, and torches readily accessible.
The DDMA appealed to the public not to dump garbage, debris or other materials into drains and nallahs, stating that such obstructions can impede the free flow of stormwater and aggravate waterlogging and flooding.
The public has also been asked to follow official weather updates and advisories issued by the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) and Home Department, and to refrain from spreading or acting upon unverified information.
The DDMA advised that any rapid rise in water levels, flooding or other emergency situations should be immediately reported to the concerned authorities or local administration.
In case of emergency, the public may contact SDRF at 9856302919 or DDMA Dimapur at 8131924008, or approach the local administration or the nearest police station/outpost.
The DDMA Dimapur stated that it is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with concerned line departments and other stakeholders, and urged the public to remain calm, vigilant and prepared while cooperating with the District Administration and concerned authorities.
(Tovikali, IA, Dimapur)