Total collapse of massive road sinking on NH- 2. Morung Photo
• Water supply line to Kohima affected
• Locals step in with relief efforts
Our Correspondent
Kohima | June 2
The massive road sinking at Phesama near Naga Heritage Village Kisama along National Highway–2 resulted in a total collapse on Monday.
A Manipur-bound truck that was stuck at the site, along with the road's retaining wall, was swept away by a landslide during the collapse.
This stretch of NH-2 (Kohima–Mao Gate), which serves as a lifeline for Manipur as well as several parts of Nagaland, has left numerous vehicles stranded on both the Kohima and Manipur sides.
The Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) water supply pipeline was also swept away by the landslide, disrupting water supply to the State capital, Kohima.
The initial road sinking occurred late Saturday night, completely cutting off the road between Chainage KM 192.050 and KM 192.150.
Local organisations from Phesama, led by the Phesama Youth Organisation (PYO) and Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO), have been on the spot since Saturday to assist stranded passengers.
PYO President Viyie Kuotsu said that the youth are helping stranded commuters, including students heading to appear for semester examinations at Japfü Christian College, Kigwema, and St Joseph’s College, Jakhama.
The Phesama Baptist Khriesaruii Krotho has also stepped in, offering tea and snacks to stranded commuters.
Merama Youth Organisation contributed by constructing temporary bathrooms and toilets for stranded drivers, while the Phesama Village Council and Phesama women are also extending essential relief support.
Meanwhile, Kuotsu urged the government to provide the best engineering solutions and construction mechanisms to permanently resolve this recurring road sinking issue.
SAYO President Zasitsolie Beio appealed to all travellers to strictly follow the travel advisory issued by the Kohima district administration.
He also stated that the district administration is monitoring the situation and coordinating with local agencies to provide necessary relief.
Kohima traffic police were seen managing traffic on the highway.
Meanwhile, Manipur-bound heavy vehicles bound has been restricted from travelling beyond Chathe Bridge (Patkai Junction) following the development.
