A massive landslide occurred approximately 1 km before the Nokpu village gate on the night of July 25 following heavy rainfall, completely blocking the main road access to the village.
Speaking to Nagaland Tribune, Meren Walling, Chairman of Nokpu Village, informed that clearing operations began early this morning. A huge boulder, larger than a JCB, is obstructing the road. An initial attempt to remove the debris using a JCB brought from Assam failed after its mouthpiece broke during the process. Efforts to break the rock using explosives were also unsuccessful after two attempts.
Another JCB was arranged from Changki area, but the operation was called off due to insufficient daylight. A second JCB from Assam, which is closer to the village than Mokokchung Town, has been requisitioned and is expected to resume the clearing work tonight.
The blockage has caused major inconvenience to commuters. A passerby told Nagaland Tribune that
they had to abandon their Bolero vehicle on one side of the landslide and arrange another car (van) from the opposite side to reach Nokpu for work.
The clearing efforts are being led by Meren Walling along with Lepden Longkumer, Gaon Bora of Lirmen village, and several villagers. The operation is being carried out under the directive of Chubatoshi,
Executive Engineer, PWD (R&B) Mangkolemba Block.
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Chairman Meren Walling said that the road remains completely blocked and inaccessible for vehicles, and emphasized that clearing the debris is urgent as it is the only main route connecting the village. He stated that authorities are working actively to clear the blockage at the earliest.