A significant road subsidence has occurred along National Highway (NH) 2 between Kohima and Mao Gate, disrupting a crucial route connecting parts of Nagaland and Manipur. This event, caused by persistent rainfall, took place near the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, leading to heavy vehicles bound for Manipur becoming stranded in the affected area. Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) for Kohima Traffic, Tshurhosie Kajiri, noted that the subsidence happened just before the Naga Heritage Village exit road. Although some vehicles passed earlier, about three heavily loaded trucks attempting to navigate the area got stuck, further impeding traffic flow. Efforts to unload materials from these trucks are currently underway, with plans to extract them once the unloading is complete. However, Kajiri indicated that the area continues to sink, complicating the response efforts.
Based on assessments from the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), Kajiri has estimated that it may take 2 to 3 days to clear the site and restore traffic. In the meantime, the movement of heavy vehicles is restricted. Traffic personnel will halt vehicles that have already crossed Sechü Zubza at Dzüdza Bridge to manage the situation. They are also overseeing the alternative routes now being utilized.
Due to the ongoing blockage, the Kohima district administration issued a traffic advisory to guide motorists. According to Deputy Commissioner Henok Buchem, heavy vehicles from Manipur heading toward Kohima will be stopped at Khuzama, while those coming from Dimapur will be halted at Sechü Zubza. Light motor vehicles (LMVs) can use alternative routes, such as the Demori Cove or JCC–Kisama–Phesama route, which is designated for one-way traffic only. For vehicles traveling south or toward Manipur, an alternative route via the BSF Camp–Chakhabama–Kidima–Viswema/Mao Gate is recommended. The public is also urged to keep away from affected electric poles and conductors until necessary safety measures are implemented.
Residents, particularly from Phesama Village and other Southern Angami areas, have been assisting travelers impacted by the subsidence. The Merama Youth Organisation (MYO) has issued safety guidelines to prevent traffic congestion and has requested adherence to directives that restrict heavy vehicles in the area. This route is essential for travelers as well as transportation of essential goods and medical emergencies.
The roadblock is affecting educational institutions such as St. Joseph’s College, which is conducting final examinations. Typically, around 50 buses and other vehicles operate along this route each working day to support these institutions. It’s noteworthy that a similar landslide occurred in the same vicinity in 2018, completely cutting off the highway and causing considerable property damage. This road is particularly vulnerable during the monsoon season and was last repaired in anticipation of the 25th Hornbill Festival in 2024.
Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) President, Zasitsolie Beio, expressed concern regarding the situation, emphasizing the stranding of vehicles on both sides. SAYO plans to visit the site early Monday to explore options for an emergency route. Beio indicated that travelers might need to be dropped off on one side and picked up on the other following a foot crossing of the affected area. In related matters, SAYO is coordinating with St. Joseph’s College to facilitate arrangements for students who are affected by the blockade.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/massive-road-sinking-on-nh-2-near-kisama-cuts-key-link-to-manipur-parts-of-nagaland
Category: Nagaland
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-06-02 00:02:00
