Massive landslides and mudslides have wreaked havoc on National Highway 29, the lifeline connecting Dimapur and Kohima in Nagaland. The catastrophe, triggered by relentless rainfall, has claimed at least six lives, left several people missing, and caused widespread destruction. The incidents unfolded late Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning, leaving numerous vehicles stranded and communities in disarray.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio took to social media platform X to express his deep concern over the unfolding crisis. He assured the public that authorities were on the ground, diligently assessing the extent of the damage and providing assistance to those affected. Rio pledged to collaborate closely with the central government and the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to expedite the restoration of normality in the region.
The Dimapur Traffic Deputy Commissioner of Police reported significant damage to the highway, with a section near Pakala Pahar, including part of the lane divider, completely cut off. Another major landslide at Tsurii, between Tsiepama and Piphema, has washed away a portion of the road, further compounding the challenges faced by commuters and rescue teams.
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The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has swiftly mobilised search operations to locate missing individuals, particularly in the Pherima area, where a substantial landslide around 8:30 PM on Tuesday claimed lives and damaged multiple vehicles parked near local hotels. Disturbingly, reports indicate that a house was also swept away in the mudslide, adding to the toll of the disaster.
In response to the unfolding crisis, the District Administration has issued a crucial travel advisory, halting all traffic between Kohima and Dimapur on NH-29. Light motor vehicles are being redirected to use the Niuland-Kohima via Zhadima road, while heavy vehicles are strictly prohibited. An alternate route via Niuland-Zhadima-10th Mile Junction has been suggested for light vehicles due to the blockage at NH-29 Pherima.
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Amidst the chaos and disruption, the District Administration has reassured the public that there is no shortage of essential commodities or fuel. They are actively collaborating with neighbouring districts to ensure supplies through available alternate routes. The administration has cautioned against panic buying, emphasising that it is unnecessary and could potentially exacerbate the situation.
