Mon, July 19: At least three people were killed and four others are feared trapped after a massive landslide triggered by incessant rain swept through Defence Colony in Nagaland’s Mon town early on Sunday, burying 13 houses under debris.
Deputy Commissioner Wennyei Konyak said three bodies had been recovered, while search and rescue operations were continuing to locate four others believed to be trapped beneath the rubble.
Rescue efforts involving the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), district police, Assam Rifles, and local volunteers were underway despite difficult conditions. Officials said unstable slopes, continuous rainfall and fast-flowing water were hampering operations.
The district administration said multiple landslides had also been reported from other parts of Mon town, while severe soil erosion along the riverbank has put several nearby houses at risk.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio expressed grief over the tragedy and announced immediate ex gratia assistance for the families of those who lost their lives, besides relief for affected households.
In a post on X, Rio said the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), district administration, District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), SDRF, police, Assam Rifles and local communities were working together to carry out rescue and relief operations.
NPP Nagaland president and MLA A. Nyamnyei Konyak also expressed condolences to the bereaved families, lauded the efforts of rescuers and volunteers, and appealed to the state government to provide immediate assistance to those affected.
With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting more heavy rain over the coming days, authorities have urged residents to stay away from landslide-prone slopes and riverbanks. Damage assessment and restoration work will begin once conditions become safe.
