Dimapur, July 23 (MExN): The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) and the Nagaland Gaonburas Federation (NGBF) on July 23 expressed grief over the recent landslides and flash floods in Nagaland and urged the state government to ensure timely relief, long-term rehabilitation and stronger disaster preparedness for affected communities.
In separate statements, the organisations conveyed condolences to the families of those killed in the disaster and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
The NSF appreciated the efforts of the state government, district administrations, the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), security forces, medical personnel, civil society organisations, churches and volunteers involved in rescue, relief and rehabilitation operations.
The student body appealed to Naga citizens, tribal bodies, student organisations, churches, civil society organisations, business establishments and well-wishers to extend financial and humanitarian assistance to the affected families.
It urged the government to ensure that relief measures reach every affected family in a timely, transparent and equitable manner. The federation also called for long-term rehabilitation, including restoration of damaged roads, bridges, electricity, water supply and communication networks, and sought adequate compensation for the loss of homes, crops, livestock and other properties.
The NSF further urged the government to strengthen disaster preparedness by investing in scientific landslide mitigation, proper drainage systems, slope stabilisation, early warning mechanisms, hazard mapping and climate-resilient public infrastructure, particularly in vulnerable areas.
Meanwhile, the NGBF said the disaster claimed nine lives, injured several others and caused widespread destruction, particularly in Mon district.
The federation said landslides swept away numerous houses, leaving thousands homeless, while damaged roads, electricity and communication networks had cut off many affected areas. It added that the need for food, drinking water, shelter and medical assistance remained urgent.
The NGBF said Mon district suffered the worst devastation, while Tuensang district also witnessed extensive damage.
It appreciated the prompt response of the NSDMA, district administrations, security forces and other rescue agencies engaged in relief and rehabilitation efforts, and commended Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for visiting the affected areas to monitor relief operations.
The federation appealed to tribal hohos, civil society organisations, churches, charitable institutions and the public to provide financial and humanitarian assistance to help affected families rebuild their lives, while conveying condolences to the bereaved families and praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.
