ITANAGAR : Governor K T Parnaik on Tuesday stressed the need for a “whole of the state” approach to deal with the flood that his affected more than 3,100 people and called for coordinated efforts by the government and civil society for disaster mitigation.

Flash floods and landslides have wreaked havoc in 14 villages of Arunachal Pradesh’s Lower Siang district, affecting wet rice cultivation fields, private properties and public infrastructure and snapping road connectivity to several areas.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu briefed the governor about the prevailing flood situation in the state and the relief and safety measures being undertaken for affected communities.

At the meeting in Lok Bhavan, the two also reviewed key developmental programmes and initiatives aimed at accelerating Arunachal Pradesh’s socio-economic progress, according to an official statement.

Expressing concern over the devastation brought in by the calamity, Parnaik stressed the importance of a coordinated response to effectively address the challenges posed by the natural calamity.

He also lauded the dedicated services of the State Disaster Response Force, district administrations, public works, civil aviation and disaster management departments, the Indian Red Cross Society, volunteers and locals for their efforts in rescue, relief and rehabilitation operations.

He also expressed concern over the recent incident of “rowdyism, threats, and intimidation” directed at the director of NERIST, a deemed university.

The institute has been witnessing turbulence in recent weeks following controversies related to administrative and recruitment matters. (Source: PTI)