PASIGHAT, 2 May: A meeting of the East Siang District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA)was held here on Thursday to review the preparedness measures ahead of the upcoming southwest monsoon.
In view of the district’s geographical vulnerability, it was noted that Pasighat is mountainous towards the north but gradually descends into wide plains towards the south, bordering Assam. The Siang River, along with its numerous tributaries, poses a significant flood risk, particularly in low-lying areas.
Flood-prone villages identified include Paglek, Sigar, Ralling, Boying, Yapgo and adjoining areas, while urban flooding hotspots include Komlighat and Jarkong. The Water Resources Department informed that the danger level of the Siang River is 153 metres.
Safe shelters have been identified at IGJ School, D Ering School, JN College auditorium, and all government schools in the respective subdivisions.
A functional district emergency operation centre and a helpline number (107) have been activated for real-time monitoring and emergency response. Additionally, a regional response centre equipped with two OBM boats has been kept ready.
The district food and civil supplies officer has been directed to ensure adequate stock of essential commodities across all circles by 3 May, while medical supplies are being distributed to all subdivisions.
Relief and rescue operations will be coordinated by the DDMO, along with the administrative officers concerned, ensuring transparency in identification of those affected and distribution of relief materials. Awareness campaigns will be carried out through the DIPRO, including dissemination of advisories, do’s and don’ts, and flood alerts.
The PMC, in coordination with the DDMO and the DIPRO, will screen awareness videos on outdoor LED screens across Pasighat.
Under the Yuva Aapda Mitra scheme, 20 cadets have already been trained, and further training for college-going youths will be conducted from May.
The deputy commissioner emphasised the need to analyse last year’s disaster data for proactive planning, including identification of flood lines and vulnerable zones. All heads of departments were directed to sensitise their field-level staffs and ensure effective dissemination of information at the grassroots level through gaon buras and local networks. (DIPRO)
