Nagaland has taken a significant step towards enhancing its disaster management capabilities by conducting large-scale mock drills simulating a 7.7-magnitude earthquake. This exercise, held on April 30, 2026, spanned multiple districts including Kohima, Dimapur, and Kiphire, aiming to bolster emergency response readiness in a region known for its seismic activity.
The drills were organized by the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and various District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs). The scenario was designed to test the region’s preparedness for what officials term the “mother of disasters.” This proactive approach is crucial given that Nagaland lies in high-risk Seismic Zone V.
Key components of the exercise included:
- Simulating major earthquake scenarios alongside extreme weather events.
- Assessing coordination among different departments and the effectiveness of communication channels during disaster response.
- Engaging local communities, as first responders often include residents who are familiar with their neighborhoods.
- Drills that encompassed various emergencies such as landslides, damage to Dimapur airport, and building collapses leading to casualties.
- Incorporating a Civil Defence air raid and blackout exercise dubbed “Operation Night Guard” as part of the overall drill.
Maj Gen K.J. Bahl emphasized that this year’s drill was impact-based, focusing on district-specific scenarios that included estimated casualties and resource needs. He noted that such detailed planning is essential for effective disaster management. Abhijit Sinha from NSDMA remarked on the importance of assessing coordination among departments: “The exercise assessed coordination among departments and the effectiveness of communication channels—both critical in disaster response.”
Community participation played a vital role in these exercises. Local residents often serve as first responders in real-life situations, making their involvement invaluable during training. Rupin Sharma highlighted this aspect: “Public feedback is important as ordinary citizens might face challenges during disasters that authorities may not immediately perceive.” This underscores the need for ongoing dialogue between emergency services and the communities they serve.
The aftermath of these mock drills leaves some uncertainties regarding future developments. Officials have not disclosed specific timelines for implementing improvements based on feedback from these exercises. However, the commitment to enhancing earthquake preparedness remains clear, as Nagaland continues to prioritize safety in a region vulnerable to seismic events.
