TAWANG, Sep 16: With the potential danger of landslide/mudslide in downstream areas ‘looming large’ following incessant rainfall across Tawang district, the administration has urged the public to remain alert, follow official advisories and cooperate with the District Administration and disaster management authorities for their own safety and the safety of the community.
Due to the incessant rainfall across Tawang district over the past several days, the risk of landslides, mudslides and blockage of natural watercourses has increased considerably. Given the potential danger of a major mudslide along the downstream areas of Bomdir Nallah, the District Administration Tawang has been issuing repeated advisories, urging villagers and residents living near streams, nallahs and other vulnerable locations to remain vigilant.
As part of precautionary measures, a team of officers led by Assistant Commissioner Tenzin Jambey, along with the District Disaster Management Officer (DDMO) Genden Tsomu and representatives of the Tawang Brigade, Indian Army, conducted a survey of the Mhenkhar and Bhuip areas towards PTSO, where large-scale landslide activity has been observed.
During the survey, the team observed continued movement of mud and debris in the affected areas. There is a possibility that the moving debris may obstruct or block natural watercourses, leading to sudden accumulation of water and posing a serious threat to downstream areas in the event of a breach or further slope failure.
Meanwhile, Kyidphel Assistant Commissioner Sange Norbu has been continuously alerting villagers and disseminating precautionary information through WhatsApp and other social media platforms to ensure timely communication at the grassroots level.
Considering the prevailing weather conditions and the continuing instability of vulnerable slopes, the District Administration has issued a fresh advisory regarding the possibility of waterlogging, landslides and mudslides. Residents, particularly those living along streams, nallahs, low-lying areas and landslide-prone locations, have been advised to remain extremely vigilant and avoid unnecessary movement near vulnerable slopes and watercourses.
The District Administration further appeals to the public not to ignore official advisories or take unnecessary risks while crossing swollen streams, landslide zones or unstable stretches of road. Any unusual blockage of watercourses, sudden rise or fall in water level, movement of debris or signs of slope instability should immediately be brought to the notice of the local administration. (DIPRO)