A joint inspection of the restoration work along NH-2 (Kohima-Mao section) at Phesama, Kohima between Chainage Km 191+840 and Km 192+100, was conducted on September 28 to assess progress of the recurring landslide.
The inspection was attended by officials from the district administration, police, PWD (NH), NHIDCL, DDMA, the Southern Angami Public Organisation, the Phesama Village Council, and youth among others.
MLA Kevipodi Sophie said the landslide had occurred repeatedly in the area, while persistent rainfall had delayed restoration work.
Sophie acknowledged the cooperation of the Southern Angami people, particularly the Phesama Village Council and youth, in managing traffic during the disruption. He also thanked residents of the Kezocha area for bearing the increased movement of heavy vehicles, including those travelling to Manipur, despite the road’s poor condition.
Sophie said the disruption had affected residents, schoolchildren and the transportation of essential commodities. He added that farmers whose paddy fields had been affected would be considered under the State Disaster Response Fund.
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Describing NH-2 as a vital highway connecting Nagaland with the Southeast Asian region, he urged the authorities to expedite the restoration work in the public interest.
Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B Henok Buchem, NCS, said that NHIDCL has assured that the affected stretch would be made motorable by the first week of November.
The DC appreciated the cooperation and resilience of the people of Southern Angami, particularly the Phesama Village Council and youth for assisting with traffic regulation during the disruption. He also acknowledged the difficulties faced by the Kezocha area due to increased heavy vehicular movement towards Manipur.
Buchem said that while no reports had been received of families being directly affected by the landslide, agricultural fields, particularly paddy fields, had been impacted. He added that necessary assistance would be considered under the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).
