The Nagaland Emergency Preparedness Exercise (NEPEx), a mega mock drill focused on earthquake preparedness, was organized in all district headquarters of the State by the Nagaland Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on 24th October 2024.
Addressing a press briefing was conducted at the Capital Convention Centre to discuss the highlights of the exercise, Advisor for NSDMA, Z Nyusietho Nyuthe, expressed gratitude to all participants and stakeholders for their hard work and the success of the mock drill. He emphasized that the exercise was aimed to assess the state’s readiness for an earthquake by simulating a magnitude M 6.9 earthquake occurring at 09:45:05 near Changtongya Town, located in the District of Mokokchung, Nagaland, whose epicentre is 26°19’20.29″N and 94°30’55.95″E at a shallow focal depth of 13.8 km.
Lead Consultant (ME & IRS) at NDMA, MHA, Maj Gen Sudhir Bahl (RETD), also addressing the press briefing, emphasized that this exercise was conducted in a highly professional manner, with enthusiastic participation from everyone involved, all driven by a strong desire to improve.
He highlighted that the mock drill was successful due to the hard work of all stakeholders. However, Maj Gen Bahl, noted the need for improvement in certain areas, particularly in integrating community responses and developing coordinated municipal and military disaster management plans. This would ensure institutional continuity, allowing trained individuals to enhance their skills rather than relying on key officers each time, he stated.
He pointed out the necessity for better awareness of the capabilities and resources available from various agencies, particularly the armed forces. Furthermore, the Lead Consultant suggested that regular conferences for civil engineers focusing on disaster response would be beneficial.
He said there is a pressing need for improved planning and coordination among all departments, especially regarding enhancing the medical capacity for major disasters. He emphasized that the medical department must develop clear plans for augmenting resources effectively. Additionally, Maj Gen Bahl also said that a well-defined perspective plan is required at the state level to gradually enhance its capabilities.
Joint CEO, NSDMA, Johnny Raungmei, stated that the coordination efforts have significantly improved from before. While there have been challenges with communication, particularly regarding road and telecom systems, he said that they faced difficulties today due to weather conditions preventing communication with Mokokchung. However, he said they had also learned about different stakeholders and their contributions to society.
Ruangmei noted that this serves as a valuable learning opportunity that has demonstrated significant improvement. As we prepare for possible chaotic situations in real-time, these exercises help us pinpoint areas needing attention, he added.
The Joint CEO explained that they chose a simulation of a magnitude 6 earthquake after analyzing neighbouring states where such events are more common. He also pointed out the importance of addressing public irresponsibility during these emergencies. He highlighted that alongside the armed forces and Assam Rifles, several key departments play vital roles in disaster management, including PWD, Telecom, Urban Development, NDRF, and the Fire Department.
Captain Boboi, 12th NDRF Commandant, and Abhijit Wyas from the Eastern Air Command in Shillong, who participated in the drill, also attended the press briefing.
