Dimapur: Nagaland’s Dimapur District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Tuesday issued a public advisory urging residents to remain alert and take necessary precautions in view of continued rainfall and the possibility of waterlogging and flooding in low-lying and vulnerable areas.
The advisory, issued by DC and DDMA chairman Tinojongshi Chang, 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 also been asked 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 other 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 and the Home Department and to refrain from spreading or acting on unverified information.