Itanagar, Sep 20 (PTI): The Arunachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), along with district administration and emergency forces, has launched a comprehensive awareness and training initiative on Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) risks in Tawang district, an official report said on Sunday.
The drive, conducted in collaboration with the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), targets vulnerable downstream habitations and security posts in the high-altitude Mago region under Thingbu circle.
Starting from Mago village, the campaign covers high-risk settlements such as Duri village along with forward camps of the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).
According to SDMA Deputy Director Dorjee Khandu, technical assessments have identified seven high-risk glacial lakes in the Mago sector. Six of these share a common downstream drainage route, putting habitations like Duri directly in the potential impact path.
Urging residents to maintain vigilance, Khandu emphasised that while high-altitude natural hazards cannot always be averted, early warning mechanisms and timely evacuation plans significantly mitigate the loss of lives and property.
APSDMA senior consultant Dr Bhupen Mili briefed residents on the triggers behind glacial lake outbursts, estimated floodwater transit times, and the establishment of local evacuation routes.
As part of the initiative, SDRF teams led by Sangey Thinley conducted hands-on drills covering basic first aid, search-and-rescue operations, and disaster equipment deployment for local residents and security personnel.
The capacity-building programme, which has covered Mago, Thingbu Hydel, New Maling, and Tongsheng, will expand to other downstream areas including Phonda, Chaksam, Grenkhar, and Dungshengmang, the report added.
