Mizoram Government Shuts Non-Essential Offices Amid Cyclone Remal Warnings

As Cyclone Remal advances with fierce weather conditions, the Mizoram government has taken decisive action to ensure public safety. On May 28, 2024, a directive was issued by Commissioner & Secretary to the Government of Mizoram, K Lalthawmmawia, mandating the closure of all government offices except those providing essential services. These essential services include Disaster Management and Rehabilitation, District Administration, Health and Family Welfare, Mizoram Police, Power and Electricity, and Public Health Engineering, among others.

This precautionary measure comes in response to severe weather warnings from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), which has forecasted heavy rainfall and strong winds as the cyclone progresses. The directive underscores the need for caution and safety, urging non-essential government staff to remain at home.

To maintain the continuity of essential services, exempted departments have been instructed to keep their operations running. Furthermore, the government has encouraged Secretaries and Heads of Departments to arrange remote work for their employees where possible, minimizing exposure to the hazardous conditions brought on by Cyclone Remal.

Private sector organizations are also advised to adopt similar “work from home” policies to ensure the safety of their employees. In line with these safety measures, the Director of School Education, Lalsangliana, announced the closure of all schools in the state on May 28. This aligns with the recommendations from the Department of Disaster Management & Rehabilitation, prioritizing the well-being of students and educational staff.

The Mizoram government remains vigilant, emphasizing collective responsibility and preparedness as the cyclone continues to impact the region. These proactive steps are part of broader efforts to mitigate the cyclone’s effects and protect the community.