van overturned by the mudslide along the alternative Phesama–Rhododendron Resort–Kisama road on July 20.
Morung Express News
Kohima | July 20
Following heavy rainfall, a mudslide occurred along the Phesama–Rhododendron Resort–Kisama route, disrupting traffic in the area on July 20.
The route was being used as an alternative for Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) after the total collapse of National Highway-2 near the Kisama exit point under Phesama following incessant rains in early June.
While no casualties or injuries were officially reported, Kohima Deputy Commissioner Henok Buchem, citing initial reports, informed The Morung Express that one vehicle had overturned during the incident but was safely recovered.
However, as clearance efforts continued in full swing, a local resident shared that a total of six vehicles, including the one mentioned by the DC, had overturned during the mudslide.
All were successfully retrieved with the help of village volunteers, the resident added, noting that although the vehicles sustained varying degrees of damage, there were no human casualties and all were able to restart and were safely parked.
Meanwhile, DC Buchem stated that upon receiving reports of the incident, the PWD (R&B) South Division promptly deployed two excavators to the site, allowing for debris clearance and the resumption of vehicular movement.
However, with intermittent mudslides continuing, the excavators remain stationed at the site for ongoing clearance operations, he said.
As of Sunday night, traffic was being regulated with only one-way movement allowed towards Kohima. Vehicles heading towards Jakhama have been directed to use the Phesama-Kisama road, where restoration work is underway.
“By tonight or tomorrow, we plan to clear the debris and allow traffic in both directions,” the DC added.
A detailed assessment will be carried out, and necessary advisories will be issued accordingly, he added.
Late in the evening a traffic advisory was issued by the District administration. (See box)
While the concerned department continues work to restore the route, Additional SP Kohima Z Tshurhosie Kajiri appealed for public cooperation and patience until restoration is complete.
“This is a natural calamity,” he maintained, advising commuters to take the Kigwema or Chakhabama road for safety.
As noted, the main NH-2 road—a vital lifeline to Manipur and parts of Nagaland—has remained completely collapsed since the first week of June due to continuous heavy rainfall and landslides.
Accordingly, light vehicles are currently being diverted via the Phesama–Rhododendron Resort–Kisama road, while heavy vehicles are being routed through the BSF Camp–Chakhabama–Kidima–Manipur road.
