The Lotha Students’ Union (LSU) has appealed to the Government of Nagaland to immediately establish a dedicated National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) unit in Wokha district, citing recurring loss of lives in and around the Doyang Hydro Electric Project.
In a statement, the LSU stated that Wokha district is a home to crucial Doyang Hydro Project, which has been generating 75MW of electricity for over two and half decades. It said the Project has significantly contributed to the State Exchequer and played a vital role in the development of Nagaland’s energy sector.
However, the Union pointed out the challenges and risks associated with the reservoir has not been adequately addressed.
According to the Union, three to four lives are lost annually on average, claimed by the waters of the Doyang Reservoir and its downstream currents. The Union said the victims include fishermen, picnickers and residents from both Wokha and neighbouring districts and Assam.
It disclosed that this year alone, two lives have already been lost, underscoring the urgent need for a dedicated disaster response mechanism in Wokha district.
Stating that the absence of a permanent, professional disaster response unit in Wokha district is no longer a gap, but “a failure of policy”, the LSU said ad-hoc rescue efforts, delayed responses, and reliance on untrained volunteers have cost lives that training, equipment and preparedness could have saved.
In this regard, the LSU president, S Zubenthung Ngullie and general secretary, Nyanthung M Khuvung unequivocally appealed to the Government of Nagaland to immediately sanction and station a designated camp of the National Disaster Response Force in Wokha District, stressing that it cannot be deferred to the next tragedy.
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It said the presence of an NDRF unit would not only provide expert water rescue operations during emergencies but would also conduct awareness and sensitization programs to educate communities about water safety and disaster preparedness.
Such initiatives would strengthen community resilience, safeguard lives, and reduce the risks posed by the reservoir, it added.
In addition to the deployment of NDRF, the LSU requested the Government to empower the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Home Guards, and Civil Defence units with adequate training and modem equipment.
It stressed that strengthening these local forces would ensure a coordinated and effective disaster management framework, enabling them to respond swiftly to emergencies and protect the lives of citizens in the state.
“The value of human life is priceless, and the recurring loss of lives in Wokha District due to water-related disasters calls for immediate action. By stationing an NDRF unit and strengthening local disaster response forces, the Government of Nagaland will demonstrate its commitment to proactive disaster management and the welfare of its people,” the LSU stated.
The Union appealed to the Government to accord this matter with highest priority and translate into decisive action without further delay.
