A comprehensive Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) Awareness and Preparedness Programme has been launched at Mago under Thingbu Circle by the Arunachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), in collaboration with DDMA Tawang and SDRF, focusing on communities living downstream of identified high-risk glacial lakes.
Seven high-risk glacial lakes have been identified in the Mago area, with six sharing a common downstream drainage system passing through several habitations, including Duri village.
Senior consultant Dr Bhupen Mili sensitised residents on the causes and mechanisms of GLOFs, possible impacts on downstream settlements and the estimated time floodwaters could take to reach vulnerable locations, including Duri village and the Indian Army camp.
Deputy Director, SDMA, Dorjee Khandu stressed the importance of establishing effective local early-warning mechanisms, safe evacuation routes and designated safe locations so that every resident can be alerted and evacuated in time during an emergency.
DDMO Tawang Tsomu Genden urged villagers to participate in the training and share the life-saving knowledge and skills with their families and the wider community.
The SDRF team led by Sangey Thinley also conducted hands-on training in first aid, basic search and rescue, use of rescue equipment and mock drills, giving participants practical experience in emergency response.
The programme was aimed at reinforcing a vital message for vulnerable mountain communities.
