Restoration works begin along NH-29 sinking road area

Our Correspondent
Kohima | July 10  

Massive restoration works have begun along the stretch of National Highway 29 (Kohima-Dimapur) near Avilie Petrol Pump which was severely damaged by landslide and land sinking on July 8.

  A clogged drain below the affected road, which posed a serious threat to further soil erosion and sinking, was being cleared by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) Kohima this morning.  

Two houses which were affected by the landslide have been dismantled by the SDRF. Emergency relief has also been distributed to the two affected families by ADC Kohima. With incessant rain hampering the progress and pace of the work, District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Kohima officials apprehended that if it continues in the coming days, it was likely to trigger more landslides in the adjacent areas which are highly vulnerable and prone to landslides.  

It may be noted that the affected area is a chronic landslide and land sinking prone area owing to the loose soil type but the damage could have been averted had the drainage systems be improved and timely intervention of the responsible authorities.  

Fresh cutting of the road has also commenced by the PWD (National Highways). At the moment, the duration of time needed for completion of work could not be ascertained because of multiple factors and until then total vehicular movement would be restricted in these areas.  

Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa, ADC & Nodal Officer for DDMA, Kohima meanwhile appreciated the land owner, affected families, the colony organizations for their kind support and providing all necessary assistance to the operation team.  

The ongoing work is a collaborative effort of District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Kohima, Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), PWD (National Highways) and District Administration Kohima.