The road stretch between Satakha and Zunheboto, which was completely blocked due to a massive landslide on the evening of September 13, has reopened for vehicular movement after ten days. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | September 22
The road stretch between Satakha and Zunheboto, which was completely blocked due to a massive landslide on the evening of September 13, has finally been reopened for vehicular movement after ten days.
The landslide had severely obstructed NH-702A, forcing light vehicles to use alternative bypass routes, while heavy vehicles, including oil tankers, were left stranded at the affected stretch for over a week, awaiting clearance.
The Public Relations Officer, Toikhu Zhimo, of the Bima Project Private Limited (under Madhucon Company and the NHIDCL), stated that clearance work began on September 14. However, continuous rainfall and recurring landslides delayed the process.
“No vehicle was able to cross the stretch due to the dangerous conditions. After relentless efforts, we finally managed to reopen the road on September 22,” the PRO informed. He also assured that the road will be fully restored in the coming days and that machinery will remain stationed on-site for emergency purposes.
He extended gratitude to the Zunheboto district administration, Satakha Town Council, Dobashis, churches, surroundings villages and the public for their cooperation and support.
He emphasized, “Since the landslide occurred, no vehicle could cross the location. Vehicles had to rely on alternative routes through Xuivi, Kiyesha, Sukhai, and Saptiqa. Our maintenance contract for this stretch continues until 2027. Our teams will remain alert with machines ready to clear any future debris.”
Hukasha Zhimo, Dobashi of Satakha Town, described the road as the “lifeline of Zunheboto district,” adding that the prolonged blockage severely affected the supply of essential commodities, including oil and LPG cylinders. “After more than nine days of continuous work, we were finally able to clear the debris today and allow trucks to pass. I urge the government to take more proactive measures during such calamities,” he said.
The impact of the landslide was so severe that even pedestrians could not cross the road. Students traveling from nearby villages to Satakha for their education were forced to trek through dense forests to attend classes. Patients in need of urgent medical attention also suffered due to the inaccessibility of the route.
