Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Monday conducted a field inspection of the landslide-affected section of National Highway-29 between Kohima and Dimapur, where heavy monsoon rains have caused major road damage and disruptions.
Joined by Deputy Chief Minister T R Zeliang and key officials from the State Public Works Department (PWD), the district administration, and Jotsoma village, the chief minister assessed areas where road segments have caved in, including a precarious stretch near the old Kohima Municipal Council dumping site.
Rio directed the PWD to carry out a fresh survey for new road alignment in the affected zones and instructed district officials to initiate talks with landowners to resolve compensation issues. He stressed the need for durable long-term infrastructure, such as reinforced drainage systems and larger hume pipes, to prevent future landslides.
Calling for a statewide assessment of highway damages, the chief minister asked for a consolidated proposal for post-monsoon restoration work.
Jotsoma village leaders raised concerns over potential land subsidence endangering their homes and urged quick construction of retaining walls. Rio assured villagers that all necessary steps were being taken to ensure safety and road connectivity.
Deputy CM Zeliang told reporters that the Centre has sanctioned Rs 24 crore for repairs along the 12-kilometre stretch. Tenders for the work, floated on June 23, will be opened on July 30. He added that the government is evaluating modern slope protection techniques using geotextile and geosynthetic materials, currently being tested in the Pagla Pahar region.
Meanwhile, NH-2 at Phesama remains blocked due to continuing mudslides and land ownership disputes. A joint site visit involving top officials and contractors is scheduled for Tuesday to push for quicker restoration.
The state is also examining the feasibility of an alternative route between Kohima and Mao in Manipur to bypass the unstable terrain, subject to local cooperation and land availability.
