Rescue efforts intensify in Nagaland, 180 stranded people evacuated amid rain-triggered landslides

Rescue efforts have intensified in Nagaland, hit by rain-triggered landslides, as authorities airlifted more than 180 stranded people and sent relief supplies to affected areas, officials said on Friday.

A notification issued by the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) said that the state government has increased response measures as heavy monsoon rains continue to disrupt road connectivity and trigger landslides.

With road access cut off to Mon and Longleng, NSDMA commandeered Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft to evacuate stranded passengers and airlift essential relief supplies. A helicopter belonging to the state government also supported the evacuation efforts.

In the statement made this evening, it was stated that IAF aircraft evacuated 148 stranded people, including 43 from Monday and 105 from Longleng, while the state helicopter evacuated 41 more people from Monday in the last 48 hours.

Among those evacuated were Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC) Combined Educational Services Examination (CESE) candidates who were affected by the road disruption.

Relief supplies airlifted to affected areas included food supplies, medical kits and clothing.
NSDMA said similar air operations will continue as necessary. Aid distribution was also expanded to other districts. Trucks carrying relief materials were sent from Mokokchung to Tuli. Ration aid was distributed to stranded and displaced families in Changtongya.

Meanwhile, district disaster management authorities provided immediate financial assistance to affected households.

Emergency relief fund (ERF) was provided to families whose houses and retaining walls were damaged due to landslide in Wokha.

In Shamator, Deputy Commissioner Arikumba delivered emergency aid to two families whose houses were damaged. ERF aid was distributed to five families affected by the recent landslides in Zunheboto.

NSDMA also stated that financial assistance has been provided to all districts for road and debris clearance in the affected areas.

The official said it continues to monitor the monsoon situation, prioritizing damage assessment, aid distribution, restoration of essential services and road clearing operations.