At least eight people, including children, are feared dead after a massive landslide triggered by incessant rainfall struck Mon district in Nagaland, bordering
Myanmar, on Saturday. The heavy downpour also led to flash floods in several parts of the district, severely affecting rescue operations. The landslide hit the Defence Colony area in Mon Town, sweeping away several houses and leaving many feared trapped beneath the debris. Rescue teams have so far recovered four bodies, while search operations continue amid challenging weather conditions. "Eight persons are feared dead. We have so far recovered four bodies from the debris, and extensive search and rescue operations are underway," Mon Deputy Commissioner Wennyei Konyak said. Authorities said the scale of the landslide, coupled with heavy water flow from flash floods, has made rescue efforts extremely difficult. The exact number of casualties and the extent of damage are yet to be ascertained.
Multi-Agency Rescue Ops Underway
Personnel from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Assam Rifles, Nagaland Police, public volunteers, and other emergency responders are carrying out search and rescue operations. According to sources, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Indian Army teams are also being rushed to the affected area to strengthen relief efforts.
Govt Expresses Grief, Announces Financial Aide For Victims
Meanwhile, the Nagaland Government has expressed profound grief over the tragedy, stating that the landslide has resulted in the loss of precious lives and caused extensive damage to property and infrastructure.
In an official statement, the government conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. The government said it is closely monitoring the evolving situation as extreme weather continues to impact several parts of the state. Besides Mon district, Tuli Sub-Division in Mokokchung district and other areas have also reported landslides, flash floods, road blockages, and damage to public infrastructure and private property.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has announced an immediate ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased person and Rs 74,000 for every injured person. The state government has directed all concerned departments to remain on high alert and appealed to the public to remain vigilant, avoid landslide-prone slopes and riverbanks, and strictly follow official advisories as heavy rains continue across Nagaland.
