Morung Express News
Chümoukedima | May 30
National Highway 29 has claimed a life once again, marking the first fatality on this treacherous stretch in 2025. Known for frequent rockfalls and landslides during the monsoon, the highway turned deadly on Friday morning when a rock dislodged from the hill side and struck a dumper truck, killing its driver on the spot.
According to reports, the incident occurred along the stretch between Patkai Bridge and New Chümoukedima, at around 7:40 am. The deceased has been identified as Salam Uddin, (aged 25-years) from New Showuba village. The Tata dumper was reportedly returning from Kohima side towards Chümoukedima when the tragic incident occurred.
The particular stretch of NH-29 is known for its vulnerability to landslides and rockfalls, particularly during the monsoon season. The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) is currently implementing slope protection measures, including the installation of iron mesh, to mitigate such hazards.
The area has witnessed multiple fatalities in recent years. On July 4, 2023, two individuals were killed and three others injured when a rockslide struck vehicles near the Chümoukedima police checkpost. In September 2024, six people died and four were injured in a series of landslides along NH-29 at Pherima, which also disrupted road connectivity between Dimapur and Kohima.
Investigations into these incidents have highlighted concerns over construction quality and safety measures. A joint survey conducted in March 2023 pointed to issues such as inadequate slope protection, substandard materials, and poor workmanship along the Dimapur-Kohima highway.
In response to the recurring hazards, the Nagaland government has repeatedly urged NHIDCL to implement comprehensive safety measures. A High-Level Technical Committee was established in July 2023 to assess and recommend improvements, emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent further tragedies.
