DIMAPUR: Minister for Housing & Mechanical Engineering, P. Bashangmongba Chang, on Thursday visited the landslide-affected area at Post Office Sector A ward and IOC colony, Tuensang, joined by district administration led by Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police, District Commandant Home Guard, Civil Defence & SDRF, DDMA officials and party leaders.
In a press release by PS to the minister informed that the minister expressed deep concern and dismay over the severe damage caused by natural disaster, while meeting the affected families and office bearers of IOC and Post Office ‘A’ ward Union, at his private residence, and also discussed about the ongoing situation and immediate needs of affected families. Addressing the gathering, Chang expressed his regret for not being able to visit the affected area on time due to the unavoidable official engagements, and assured affected families his continued support during the challenging period and that his family and the State Government, led by chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio stood firmly in solidarity with them.
Highlighting other districts’ similar incidents, the minister also noted that although many houses have been swept away and many families affected in the ongoing landslide incident, no loss of life has been reported in Tuensang and hence, should remain grateful to Almighty God for His Mercy and protection.
Chang firmly stressed the importance of proper drainage management, observing that people often give greater attention to construction of houses while neglecting general welfare such as maintenance of adequate drainage systems.
He said that poor drainage system was one of the major factors contributing to landslides in and around the town and thereby called upon district administration to sensitize public on importance of constructing and maintaining proper drainage systems, particularly in vulnerable areas like Tuensang.
He further appealed the gathering that each individual must come together, discuss and exchange ideas in thwarting future occurrence of such incidents with a collective effort without only depending on Union Office bearers and Department since it was everyone’s responsibility.
The minister layer expressed his gratitude to district administration, SDRF, DDMA, office bearers of IOC and Post Office A Sector Union and all individuals and organizations for pro-active and timely intervention in rendering assistance, relief and support in different forms and capacities to the affected families without leaving them on the lurch.
He also appealed affected families and people of the locality to remain united, strong and continue supporting one another during this challenging period.
The minister extended financial assistance to affected families numbering.
