A cloudburst on late Tuesday night caused two devastating mudslides/rockslides and a landslide on the National Highway 29, completely cutting off the Kohima-Dimapur road.

Deaths, missing persons and destruction to property have been reported, however, the details are yet to be confirmed by authorities.

The mudslides/rockslides occurred between Pherima and Midway Resort and also below Tsiepama Model village before reaching Piphema. These areas are popular stoppages for trucks and travellers.

Additionally, a landslide occurred at Chümoukedima in the Pagla Pahar area where one side of the 4-lane highway has fallen into the river.

In a post on X platform, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has expressed deep concern by the “large scale destruction on NH-29 caused by incessant rainfall”. He informed that the authorities are at the sites assessing the situation and helping those affected.

The Chief Minister also assured to continue to pursue with the Central Government and NHIDCL for immediate measures and restore normalcy at the earliest.

Deputy Chief Minister and in-Charge of Highways also expressed deep anguish over the calamity “leading to loss of life and properties”. He informed that search and rescue operations are underway while requesting for prayers for those who are still missing.

Zeliang stated, “The State Government will immediately take measures to alleviate the pain caused by this natural disaster. And also assess the situation leading to the cause of such frequent debacle on this NH-29 4-Lane Road.”