At least 8 killed in Nagaland landslide

Newmai News Network
KOHIMA, Jul 19 : A massive landslide in Mon district of Nagaland has claimed at least eight lives and caused extensive damage to property, according to reports.
The landslide occurred around 6.30 am today in a residential area located below the Assam Rifles camp at Mon district headquarters.
Rescue teams are currently engaged in search and recovery operations.
The Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs), district administrations, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Nagaland Police and other line departments are working on the ground to carry out rescue operations, evacuate vulnerable residents, restore essential services and provide immediate relief to those affected.
ToI reports that Mon Deputy Commissioner Wennyei Konyak told ANI that 4 bodies have been recovered so far, while 4 others are still under debris.
"Eight people have died in the landslide incidents triggered by incessant heavy rainfall occurred in multiple locations in Mon district. The most affected areas are Mon town, Tizit. The heavy rainfall started at around 1 am and we have received information about landslide incidents at around 6-7 am." Konyak said.
Officials said the State Government is closely monitoring the situation arising from the ongoing extreme weather conditions affecting several parts of Nagaland.
Besides Mon district, Tuli sub-division in Mokok-chung district and other areas have also been severely affected by land- slides, flash floods, road blockages and damage to public infrastructure and private properties.
Nagaland Chief Minister has announced immediate ex-gratia assistance of Rs 4 lakh each to the next of kin of those who died in the landslide and Rs 74,000 each to the injured.
The Government will also provide relief assistance, including food, temporary shelter, essential commodities and other eligible support to affected families across the affected districts.
The Government has also directed all departments concerned to remain on high alert and maintain close coordination for timely response, restoration of connectivity and rehabilitation of affected communities.
Continuous assessment of the situation is being carried out, with additional assistance to be mobilised wherever necessary.
The public has been advised to remain vigilant, avoid vulnerable slopes, riverbanks and landslide-prone areas, follow advisories issued by the NSDMA, Home Department and district administrations, and rely only on official sources for information.
The Nagaland Government said it stands with all affected families during the difficult period and remains committed to providing timely relief and assistance while working towards restoring normalcy at the earliest.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rainfall across the Northeast throughout the week.
Heavy rainfall is likely over Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura, prompting authorities to advise people in vulnerable areas to remain alert and follow official advisories.