Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio surveys the landslide-affected stretch of NH-29, emphasizing the need for durable infrastructure and preventive measures.
Prompted by the recent downpour of the monsoon, the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, was seen going out into the field to observe a severely compromised section of National Highway 29-from Kohima to Dimapur- which has suffered multiple mudslides and earth subsidence on more than one occasion and caused traffic flow to be disrupted. Accompanied by Deputy CM T R Zeliang and state and local authorities, Rio did an on-site evaluation, including at the collapsed segment near the old Kohima Municipal Council landfill, forcing users in that area to a narrow route meant only for light vehicles.
Emphasizing on the need for durable infrastructure improvement, Rio asked the officials concerned to start making geological surveys and arrange land compensations with the holders so that safe road design and better drainage systems can be packed with those requirements. He also vested in the installation of bigger Hume pipes and the construction of bridges, concrete engineering interventions that have proven to be resilient across India. Rio also ordered a survey for all national highway amenities in the state, with an integrated post-monsoon restoration plan.
Speaking to the media, Deputy Chief Minister T R Zeliang stated that the state government had previously presented a proposal for monsoon readiness that included slope protection and road repair works along a 12-kilometer stretch of the specified location.
The village representatives from Jotsoma expressed worries that ground instability is threatening their settlement up on high ground above the landslide zone; they clamored for the rapid construction of retaining walls, a call echoed by Deputy CM Zeliang, who confirmed ₹24 crore central funding for slope stabilization and repair to the roads, tenders floated, and openings scheduled by July 30. In parallel, trials are being undertaken using innovative slope-protection techniques through geotextile materials near Pagla Pahar which might be replicated along the compromised sections. NHIDCL engineers and contractors, among others, are set to conduct a coordinated inspection to fast-track the remedial works, while an alternative route that bypasses the landslide-prone stretches is being considered, subject to approvals for land access.
"Considering the recurring landslides in this area, we are exploring safer alternative alignments," the deputy CM added.
