Chemical Leak in Jatinga River Prompts Emergency Advisory from DDMA, Dima Hasao

Hills Live News Desk

Haflong July 2: Dima Hasao’s District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) issued a public safety advisory on 2 July 2026 after a tanker carrying formalin (formaldehyde solution) broke down on NH-27 between Jatinga and Jatinga Lampu, leaking the toxic chemical into the Jatinga River.

Authorities have urged residents living along the river and downstream areas to immediately stop using river water for drinking, cooking, bathing, washing, or irrigation. People have also been warned against consuming fish or aquatic life from the affected stretch, and advised to keep livestock and pets away from the river.

The DDMA cautioned against swimming, fishing, or entering the river until further notice. Residents experiencing eye or skin irritation, breathing difficulty, nausea, dizziness, or vomiting after exposure are advised to seek urgent medical attention.

The administration has directed health, water, disaster management, and local authorities to conduct water quality tests, activate emergency response teams, and widely publicize safety measures. Citizens have been urged to remain calm, avoid rumours, and rely solely on official updates.

This advisory is effective immediately and will remain in force until the river is declared safe.