LSU flags safety gaps at Doyang, seeks NDRF unit

The Lotha Students’ Union (LSU) has expressed concern over recurring loss of lives linked to the Doyang Hydro Electric Project (DHEP) and called for urgent government intervention, stating that the absence of a disaster response mechanism in Wokha district reflects a serious policy failure.
In a press release, LSU president S. Zubenthung Ngullie and general secretary Nyanthung M. Khuvung said Wokha hosts one of Nagaland’s most significant water bodies—DHEP, which has been generating 75 MW of power for over 25 years. While acknowledging its contribution to the State exchequer and energy sector, the union said associated risks have not been adequately addressed.
Highlighting the human cost, LSU said an average of three to four lives are lost annually in the Doyang reservoir and downstream currents. Victims include fishermen, picnickers and residents from Wokha, neighbouring districts and Assam.
It noted that two lives have already been lost this year.
The union said the absence of a permanent disaster response unit in Wokha was no longer a gap but a policy failure, adding that ad-hoc rescue efforts, delays and reliance on untrained volunteers have led to avoidable deaths.
LSU appealed to the State government to immediately sanction and station a National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) camp in Wokha, stating it would ensure expert rescue operations and awareness on water safety and disaster preparedness.
Further, LSU urged strengthening of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Home Guards and Civil Defence units with adequate training and modern equipment for effective emergency response.
Stressing that human life is invaluable, the union said the recurring tragedies demand immediate action and urged the government to accord the matter top priority.