323/2024-2025
AIZAWL; the 14th November, 2024: Along with DDMA of other districts of Mizoram, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Mizoram State Disaster Management Authority (MSDMA) and the Aizawl District Disaster Management Authority (ADDMA) jointly organized a mega Mock Drill on Flood and Landslide Disaster in Aizawl District to assess preparedness for flood and landslide-related emergencies.
The mock drill simulated a scenario where incessant heavy rainfall caused flooding and landslides in Aizawl district, resulting in casualties and damage to infrastructure. The drill tested the response of various teams, including emergency responders, hospitals, and government agencies.
The disaster was triggered by incessant heavy rainfall, which caused the Sairang/Tlawng River to swell and overflow, sweeping away five boats and submerged seven houses. The flood also damaged water pipelines and disrupted communication lines (landline and mobile), and power supply was cut off. Unfortunately, two people lost their lives, and 12 others were rescued after being stranded.
Heavy rainfall triggered a landslide at Vaivakawn Zohnuai, destroying 4 houses. The road between Vaivakawn and Ropaibawk was blocked, water pipelines were damaged, and communication lines (landline and mobile) were disrupted. The landslide resulted in the loss of 2 lives, with 8 others injured.
A landslide caused a short circuit at the 7th Day Hospital, resulting in a fire outbreak, with 2 fatalities and 8 injuries reported.
At 10:00 a.m., the disaster siren was activated at four places Viz: the District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC), Sairang, Vaivakawn Zohnuai, and 7th Day Hospital, signalling the start of the Mega Mock Drill. The mock drill simulated response measures for various disaster scenarios, including flood response measures at Sairang, landslide response measures at Vaivakawn Zohnuai, and fire response measures at 7th Day Hospital. The mock drill was conducted from 10:00 Am to 2:00Pm.
The Mega Mock Drill involved participation from 7th Day hospital, Civil Hospital Aizawl, Kulikawn Hospital, PHC Sairang, Police, MPRO, PWD, P&E, PHED, FCS&CA, I&PR, Transport Dept., Traffic, NIC, NDRF, QRT, 5th IR SDRF,23rd AR, MRHG,1st MAP & 3rd MAP SDRF, F&ES, CDRT and VLDMC Sairang.
The Aizawl District Disaster Management Authority (ADDMA) has identified several areas for improvement, including the need for better communication systems, more effective coordination among stakeholders, and enhanced capacity building for emergency responders. The mock drill was observed by officials from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA). The observers provided feedback and suggestions for improvement.
The Aizawl District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who participated in the mock drill, including government agencies, hospitals, emergency responders, and community members.
In conclusion, the Mega Mock Drill conducted in Aizawl District was a successful exercise that tested the preparedness and response of various stakeholders in the event of a disaster. The drill highlighted the need for better communication systems, more effective coordination among stakeholders, and enhanced capacity building for emergency responders.
Er.Lalhriatpuia, IAS, Deputy Commissioner and ADDMA Chairman and members of ADDMA manned District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC) during Mock Drill.
