Details of relief efforts initiated by the Namchi District Administration in the wake of a sudden and intense flash flood in Melli

Namchi,6th October: In the wake of a sudden and intense flash flood in Melli on the night of October 3rd, 2023, the Namchi District Administration swiftly initiated relief efforts to aid the affected residents. This incident was caused by a dramatic surge in water levels in the local rivers, leading to extensive damage to properties and infrastructure in the area.
The relief camp, established at Melli Senior Secondary School, is currently providing assistance to 105 residents, comprising 35 households. The management of this relief camp is under the dedicated supervision of SDM Jorethang and BDO Melli, in collaboration with the active support and coordination of the local community, volunteers, and NGOs.
Remarkably, due to the immediate response of the community and the efficient efforts of the administration, there have been no reported casualties in Melli. However, the flood has resulted in substantial property damage, with houses inundated and filled with flood-deposited silt. Even the local football ground in Melli was severely affected, with extensive silt deposits and damage to vehicles.
The District Collector Mr. Bharani Kumar, alongwith Assistant Collector Mr. Pulkit, SDM Jorethang Miss Saloni Pradhan, BDO Sumbuk Mr. Nilkanth Bhandari visited the relief camp today to assess the situation, understand the concerns of the affected residents, and communicate the administration’s plans for effective post-disaster rehabilitation and rebuilding. During the inspection, key areas of focus included Melli Bazaar, low-lying areas, and the relief camp itself.
In response to the urgent need for action, it was decided to prioritize the desilting of low-lying common areas while simultaneously implementing precautionary measures against potential future disasters. The administration also reached out to the relief camp’s inhabitants, who reported that the camp is well-equipped and that essential commodities are readily available. However, given the severity of the disaster, it is anticipated that additional support from the community in the form of donations and volunteers will be essential.
To facilitate this, the District Administration has set up collection centers at the DAC office and Kisan Bazaar, in coordination with local NGOs. These centers will serve as hubs for gathering contributions and support from the community.
**Relief Camp Operations:**
– Food preparation is a collaborative effort, with the community actively involved in cooking using raw materials provided by NGOs.
– Medical check-ups are conducted by MOIC, and counseling services are offered by officials to support the mental well-being of those affected.
– A damage assessment report is being meticulously prepared by the camp’s in-charge.
During his visit, DC Mr. Bharani Kumar also directed various departments, including UDD, PHE, Roads and Bridges, and Power, to expedite debris clearance work, reinforce protective measures, and ensure consistent power supply to the affected areas. The Civil Supplies Inspector briefed about ongoing efforts to ensure public access to essential commodities.
The Namchi District Administration is fully committed to provide swift and effective relief to the residents of Melli and will continue to work tirelessly to support the community during this challenging time.
For further information or to offer assistance, please contact – +91 73844 36089
(Press Release from the office of DC, Namchi District)