Disaster management agency coordinating with NE states after quake

New Delhi, Jan 4  The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is coordinating with north-eastern states and others concerned for rescue and relief after an earthquake early Monday morning in Manipur, a home ministry statement said.

"The NDMA has begun coordinating with the state governments, ministries of home affairs, defence, telecom, National Disaster Response Force, and government departments and agencies concerned for rescue and relief following the 6.7 magnitude quake in Tamenglong district in Manipur at 4.35 a.m. today (Monday)," the statement said.

The statement said the NDMA authorities, working in close coordination with the Prime Minister's Office, also talked to the control room/relief commissioners of all north-eastern states.

"So far, five deaths and 33 injuries have been reported from Imphal (8:50 a.m.). Damages to a few buildings, residential units and government offices have been reported, including damage to a six-storey building in Imphal," said the statement.

Two NDRF teams are being airlifted from Guwahati to Imphal. Communication systems are functioning, particularly those of the Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited, in the area.

"The NDMA is monitoring and coordinating all relief activities. National Crisis Management Committee headed by the cabinet secretary was scheduled to meet to assess the situation and provide all necessary help from the government of India," said the statement.