Nagaland Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along has called for a coordinated approach between Nagaland and Assam to deal with floods and other natural disasters, saying the two neighbouring states should focus on collective action rather than blaming each other.
Along made the remarks on August 5 amid a controversy over allegations that illegal mining activities in Nagaland may have contributed to the severe flooding reported in several Upper Assam districts.
The minister said both states had suffered significant damage from the recent spell of heavy rainfall and that the situation required cooperation between the two governments.
“The Government of Nagaland has taken into consideration whatever the Honourable Chief Minister of Assam has conveyed. We are very sure that both chief ministers are in touch regarding the natural calamities,” Along said.
He pointed out that Nagaland had also experienced extensive destruction due to the heavy rains, including landslides, damaged houses, washed-away bridges, loss of lives and disruption of livelihoods.
“We cannot blame each other for anything. We have to take collective measures. The Government of Nagaland and the Chief Minister are considering all these issues,” he said.
Along added that the issue was expected to be taken up during a meeting of the Nagaland Cabinet.
The comments came after several organisations in Nagaland, including the Konyak Union, rejected allegations linking mining activities in Mon district to the floods in Assam.
Responding to questions about the Konyak Union’s denial of illegal mining allegations, Along said elected representatives and public figures should exercise restraint while speaking on sensitive issues that could affect public sentiment.
“We are responsible people. We do not make comments here and there. We pray that our friends in Assam will also consider that we are chosen to serve the people and relieve their pain, not blame each other,” he said.
The minister said Nagaland was conscious of the sensitivities surrounding the issue and stressed the need to prioritise people affected by the natural disaster.
“We know how sentiments are hurt. Nagaland chooses to be responsible. We are a small state. We pray for the victims and the people of Assam in every way, and we hope the same for the people of Nagaland,” Along said.
On concerns relating to the environment and the role of forests in preventing ecological damage, Along said the Nagaland government remained committed to afforestation and biodiversity conservation.
“The Forest and Environment Department is continuing plantation drives across the state. Logging is almost banned in Nagaland, and trees are used mainly by local communities for their livelihood and essential needs,” he said.
He added that the state would continue working towards strengthening environmental protection and making Nagaland more climate-resilient while protecting its biodiversity.
