Minister P Chang along with other officials during a visit to landslide-affected wards in Tuensang on August 13.
Tuensang, August 13 (MExN): Nagaland Minister for Housing and Mechanical Engineering, P Bashangmongba Chang, on Thursday inspected landslide-affected areas at Post Office Sector 'A' ward and IOC Colony in Tuensang to assess the damage caused by continuous natural disasters.
The minister was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including District Administration officials led by the Deputy Commissioner, the Superintendent of Police, the District Commandant of Home Guards, Civil Defence & SDRF, District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) officials, and political leaders.
Expressing deep concern over the extensive destruction, Chang later hosted affected families and office bearers of the IOC and Post Office 'A' Ward Union at his private residence in the evening to discuss the ongoing situation and deliberate on immediate relief measures.
Addressing the gathering, the minister expressed regret for not being able to inspect the affected sites earlier due to unavoidable official commitments. He assured the victims of his sustained support, emphasizing that his family and the Government of Nagaland, led by Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, stand firmly in solidarity with them during this period of crisis.
Highlighting similar monsoon disasters across other districts, Chang noted that while several houses were swept away and numerous families displaced in Tuensang, it was a matter of relief that no loss of life had been reported. He called on the community to remain grateful for divine mercy and protection.
The minister firmly stressed the critical need for planned drainage management, observing that citizens frequently focus on house construction while neglecting public infrastructure like adequate drainage systems. He pointed out that poor drainage remains a primary catalyst for recurring landslides in and around Tuensang town.
Chang directed the District Administration to sensitize the public on the importance of constructing and maintaining proper drainage networks, particularly in topographically vulnerable zones. He urged citizens to unite, exchange preventive ideas, and take collective responsibility rather than relying solely on union office bearers or government departments.
Expressing gratitude to the District Administration, SDRF, DDMA, IOC and Post Office 'A' Sector Union, and local civil society groups, Chang lauded their prompt and proactive intervention in evacuating and supporting displaced families without leaving them stranded.
During the meeting, the minister extended direct financial assistance to a total of 63 affected households.
The event commenced with a welcome address and concluded with remarks by Pukho Khiamniungan, Working President of BJP Mandal 53 AC, followed by a mass prayer. The meeting was attended by representatives of affected families, union leaders, and party office bearers.
