Damaged water pipelines exposed along a muddy stretch in Kezoma village, Kohima district, following the diversion of NH-2 traffic.
DIMAPUR, JULY 28 (MExN): The Kezoma Village Council has submitted a representation to the Deputy Commissioner of Kohima regarding extensive damage caused to the village’s water pipelines and roads following the diversion of vehicular traffic through the village area. The diversion was enforced after the sinking and complete closure of National Highway-2 (Kohima to Mao Gate) at Phesama, between chainage Km 192.050 to Km 192.150.
According to the council, the travel advisory issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Kohima had directed vehicles bound for the southern regions and Manipur to use the alternative route via BSF – Chakhabama – Kezo Town – Kezo Rasa – Kezoma – Kidima – Viswema – Mao Gate. As a result, Kezoma village now lies directly along the designated diversion route.
The council stated that this diversion has caused severe damage to the village’s critical water infrastructure. The two main pipelines, which are the primary sources of drinking water for the village and originate from Viswema and Pudimumai, have been extensively damaged due to the continuous movement of vehicles, particularly heavy ones. The affected stretch is between Kidima (Prayer Park) and Kezoma village (Local Ground), covering approximately two to three kilometres.
The Kezoma Water Management Committee conducted a verification on July 17, 2025, and confirmed that the pipelines had been damaged at multiple points, with some sections suffering permanent structural damage. As a result, the entire village is currently without access to potable water.
The council further noted that more than 600 vehicles are plying through the village every day. Despite the standing order dated June 1, 2025, which restricts the movement of heavy vehicles on this alternate route, the council said the order has not been effectively implemented. It stated that heavy vehicles continue to use the route, leading to further deterioration of the fragile road and making travel increasingly difficult for light motor vehicles. The council also pointed out that the ongoing heavy rainfall has worsened the situation.
In its representation, the Kezoma Village Council made several appeals to the district administration. It requested the immediate repair and restoration of the damaged water pipelines and urged the authorities to explore the laying of a new and alternate pipeline route, away from the main road, to prevent recurring damage and ensure uninterrupted water supply. The council also requested financial and logistical assistance under Disaster Management or Emergency Relief Funds, considering the sudden nature of the traffic diversion and the aggravation caused by heavy rainfall.
Additionally, the council appealed for maintenance and restoration of the damaged road to ensure safe passage for light motor vehicles and for the convenience of villagers. It also called for strict enforcement of the standing order dated June 1, 2025, to completely restrict the movement of heavy vehicles through the route.
