Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, accompanied by Deputy Chief Ministers Y Patton (Home) and TR Zeliang (National Highway), along with MLAs, advisors, and officials, visited the landslide-affected area along National Highway-2 between Phesama and Kisama on July 22.

During the visit, Rio emphasized that the worsening condition of NH-2 not only affects Nagaland but also impacts connectivity to Manipur. He described the issue as a longstanding challenge, with frequent disruptions over the years due to various reasons, dating back to years.

Stressing the need for a permanent solution, he proposed the development of a bypass or alternative route from Chakabama-Kedima to Senapati, built to National Highway specifications so that loaded trucks can ply. He pointed out that village roads are not designed for highway traffic loads, which leads to frequent road damage.

After the visit, Rio took to his official handle “X” and appreciated the ongoing efforts in restoring connectivity.

“Inspected the NH-2 landslide-affected area at Phesama, Kohima. While appreciating the ongoing efforts in restoring connectivity, the hilly and landslide-prone terrain has always been a challenge, requiring new approaches,” he wrote.

He further stated that National Highways are the lifelines of a nation, essential for connectivity and economic activity.

In light of the recent disruptions in Nagaland, the State Government is coordinating with all implementing agencies to ensure early restoration of the affected areas, he further stated.

The recent incessant rainfall triggered a mudslide on the Phesama-Kisama bypass road, near Rhododendron Resort, on Sunday, July 20, temporarily disrupting traffic. Responding swiftly, local youths and volunteers from Phesama worked late into the night, till 11 PM, to clear sections of the blocked route. Their efforts were supported by Ketoubuzo Lhoushe, who provided vital machinery for emergency use. On July 21, the Public Works Department (PWD) took over the restoration work, deploying more machinery to continue clearing the route.

Also read: CM Rio inspects old KMC dumping site in Kohima

On July 21, Deputy Commissioner, Henok Buchem had issued a traffic advisory notifying the public that the alternative route between Phesama and Kisama/Kigwema for Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) has been restored and reopened for traffic with immediate effect.

However, in light of public safety concerns, the advisory further states that vehicular movement along the landslide-affected section of National Highway-2 near Kisama shall remain restricted.

Commuters have been advised to avoid non-essential travel on the affected stretch and refrain from night journeys.

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Stating that traffic would be regulated in the event of further mudslides, the DC advised the commuters to exercise caution and take necessary precautions while traveling in and around the affected areas.

Also Read: Restoration of Phesama-Kisama route underway