Vehicles submerged in mudslide which occurred at Saron Colony, Ward 15, Wokha town on September 24. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Wokha | September 24
A mudslide occurred at Saron Colony, Ward 15, Wokha town, around 1AM on September 24 following several days of continuous rainfall.
Residents attributed the incident to the absence of a proper culvert and slab along the highway.
Although the concerned department had installed two ring pipes earlier, locals said the pipes are insufficient to handle the volume of water and frequently get clogged, forcing water to overflow onto the road.
This overflow triggered a mudslide that stranded a Tuensang-bound night bus and submerged a car parked along the highway.
Residents expressed frustration that despite over four years of appeals to National Highway authorities, no permanent measures have been taken. This marks the third such incident this year.
Wobemo, Chairman of Saron Colony, said the problem has persisted for years despite repeated appeals to the district administration and highway authorities.
“Even last year this same incident occurred, and this year it has happened multiple times again. Students, daily commuters, and the public continue to suffer because of this. Today, even the Tuensang night super bus is stuck here. We demand the concerned department to immediately construct a proper culvert and slab to prevent such incidents,” he said.
He cautioned that if authorities fail to act, residents may be compelled to resort to road blockades.
Samuel Ezung, Chairman of Niropen Colony and President of the Wokha Town Colonies Union, said the issue is recurring every monsoon season.
“This year alone, it has already happened twice. The ring pipes installed block easily and worsen the flooding. The stretch of highway from Saron to Niropen Colony suffers the most, and daily travellers are stranded. Colony members often have to step in to help,” he added.
He also further highlighted that several other roads across Wokha town have also been damaged this monsoon and urged the concerned authorities to address the issue urgently to ensure the safety of commuters and prevent further hazards.
