The State government has invoked and reiterated the statutory powers vested in District Collectors, as chairpersons of the District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs), to deal with monsoon-related disasters.

In a circular issued by the Disaster Management Department on August 3, Chief Secretary Bishwanath Sinha directed all District Collectors to immediately exercise the powers available to them under Sections 34 and 50 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, to ensure a rapid and unhindered response to the ongoing monsoon-related crisis.

As per the circular, the District Collectors have now been fully empowered and directed to take all necessary measures to safeguard the lives and property of people. The decision was taken in view of the severe monsoon-led crisis, including widespread flash floods and landslides.

The circular also stated that actions taken by the District Disaster Management Authority chairpersons, as well as those delegated by them, would be legally protected as actions taken in good faith under Section 73 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.

Published - August 07, 2026 07:22 pm IST