Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang, and officials inspect the landslide-affected stretch covered with tarpaulin sheets at the old KMC dumping site along NH-29, near Kohima, on July 21. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | July 21
Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr Neiphiu Rio today inspected the landslide affected stretch at old KMC dumping site along National Highway 209 between Kohima- Dimapur.
This landslide affected area has hampered the normal movement of vehicles between Kohima- Dimapur for the last more than one week and heavy vehicle has been restricted on this route.
Accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang and Horticulture & Women Resource Development minister Salhoutuonuo Kruse, the CM assessed the current situation and stressed on the need to find ways and means to restore normalcy at the earliest.
The inspection assessed the severity of the landslide and explored both immediate and long-term mitigation measures to ensure the safety and smooth flow of traffic along this critical route.
During the visit, the Chief Minister held discussions with various stakeholders to formulate a comprehensive plan addressing the issue.
The Chief Minister emphasized the need for coordinated action among all concerned departments and community stakeholders to address the problem effectively.
“The government is taking all necessary measures to minimize inconvenience to citizens and restore normalcy at the earliest,” Dr Rio posted in X.
Authorities are initiating necessary interventions to stabilize the affected area and minimize further disruptions along NH-29.
Deputy Commissioner B. Henok Buchem, Superintendent of Police Teisovise Metha, PWD National Highway officials, village leaders from Jotsoma and other district officials also present at the inspection.
Restriction of heavy vehicles movement continues
The restriction for movement of heavy vehicles continues along a landslide-affected stretch at old KMC dumping site.
Heavy vehicles have been diverted via Peducha Bridge–Tsiesema (10 Mile) road.
While no ban has been placed on Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) on the stretch, the Kohima administration has advised those bound for other districts to take the same alternative route: “Peducha Bridge–Tsiesema (10 Mile).”
Rio to inspect landslide area at Phesama on July 22
Talking to section of media persons at the site, TR Zeliang said that sanction has been accorded for slope protection work at old KMC dumping site and maintenance work for 12 km at the project cost of Rs 24 crore.
The proposal for this work is part of the state’s monsoon preparedness.
He said that tender has been floated on June 23 and tender will be opened on July 30. “We shall start the work after the tender is finalized,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister will be inspecting landslide affected area at Phesama along National Highway- 2 on July 22.
“We are going to visit it tomorrow and see how soon it will be executed.” Zeliang said adding that National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) officials will also be invited.
