"Mizoram's Kolasib Hosts Key Meeting on Civil Defence Amid Indo-Pak Tensions"

A significant meeting took place at the Deputy Commissioner's Conference Hall in Kolasib, Mizoram, to address the Civil Defence Action Plan in response to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The meeting was chaired by Kolasib Deputy Commissioner (DC) Robert C Lalhmangaiha, who highlighted the urgency of preparing a comprehensive civil defence strategy. He emphasized that this plan is a key priority not only for the central and state governments but also for the district administration.

In his opening remarks, the DC stressed the importance of proactive preparedness, especially since Kolasib is considered the second most critical district in Mizoram after Aizawl. The district has already submitted its priority list of essential infrastructure as instructed by the Chief Secretary. He urged stakeholders, including civil society organizations and government departments, to work in unison. Despite Kolasib’s generally peaceful atmosphere, he warned against complacency, stating that a high level of alertness must be maintained. He reminded the public that national and state priorities are inherently district priorities too. The DC also appealed to citizens to avoid sharing information about troop movements on social media, underlining the importance of discipline and unity during such sensitive times.

The Superintendent of Police (SP) of Kolasib, David H Lalthangliana, also spoke at the meeting. He reiterated the significance of the Civil Defence Act of 1968 and noted that even though Kolasib is geographically peaceful, unpredictability requires constant readiness. He encouraged civilian cooperation with law enforcement to ensure peace and security.

Several key decisions were made during the meeting. One of the most important was the establishment of control rooms. The main District Control Room will be located at the District Emergency Operation Centre (DM&R branch) at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, while local police stations will serve as subsidiary control rooms and provide assistance and information to the public.

Additionally, the DC's Office has been tasked with drafting a detailed District Civil Defence Action Plan. All relevant government departments must provide necessary inputs to aid its preparation. Another directive was issued to the District Transport Officer (DTO) to compile a comprehensive list of all vehicles registered in the district. This list will help identify vehicles suitable for emergency help and rescue operations.

A major part of the preparedness strategy includes an air raid mock drill, scheduled for Monday night in Kolasib and Vairengte. The drill will begin with a siren at 8:59 PM. All lights, including those from inverters and solar lamps, must be turned off. Vehicular movement will be paused from 9:00 PM to 9:04 PM during the drill. Village Councils and NGOs are instructed to spread awareness and ensure smooth execution of the drill. The Police Department will handle traffic control during the event.

The meeting saw participation from a wide range of officials and stakeholders, including the Additional Deputy Commissioner, representatives from the Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School (CIJW) in Vairengte, NHIDCL, Railways, NEEPCO, Mizofed, local government departments, Village Councils, NGOs, and Church leaders.

The administration concluded by reaffirming its commitment to the safety and security of the district’s residents and appealed for full cooperation from the public in these vital preparedness measures.