Kevipodi, Kropol inspects Phesama landslide affected site on August 17. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | August 17
MLA Kevipodi Sophie and Prison, Printing & Stationery Advisor Er Kropol Vitsu, both representing Southern Angami Assembly Constituencies, today inspected the Phesama landslide-affected stretch along National Highway-2 and directed the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to take immediate steps to restore connectivity.
The landslide has disrupted vehicular movement, affecting villagers, students and travelers between Nagaland and Manipur (Kohima- Mao stretch).
Kropol Vitsu said that he along with Kevipodi held discussions with NHIDCL authorities regarding immediate restoration of the road.
He said the obstruction was caused by a massive sliding of earth from the hillside, with the affected stretch extending about 300 metres and the upper portion of the landslide extending around 70 metres.
Vitsu said the immediate priority was to create a thoroughfare for pedestrians and light vehicles, follow by efforts to restore movement for heavier vehicles.
He said NHIDCL officials had agreed to begin work from August 18 to clear a passage for public movement. He added that long-term restoration would require a technical assessment, proper drainage and measures to prevent further movement of earth.
Pointing to the large catchment area above the affected stretch, he stressed the need for proper water channels to safely divert rainwater towards the stream.
Technical experts from outside the state are expected to study the soil and ground conditions and identify factors contributing to the landslide.
Vitsu also said the alternate route being used by smaller vehicles through Phesama main junction, Rhododendron, Kisama and Kigwema were in poor condition due to the increased volume of traffic.
He said that the NHIDCL had indicated that if the State Government, through the Chief Engineer, Roads & Bridges, prepared an estimate for maintenance of the alternative road, the corporation would process it for consideration by the authorities in Delhi under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
NHIDCL Nagaland Executive Director RP Singh said the landslide occurred on August 13, resulting in the complete stoppage of vehicular movement along the affected stretch. He said that the technical experts are expected to arrive on Tuesday to vet the proposed restoration plan. In the meantime, NHIDCL would deploy machinery to create a passage for pedestrians.
During the inspection, the MLAs expressed concern over the delay in restoration. They said that immediate restoration is necessary to reduce hardship faced by villagers, students, commuters and travellers between Nagaland and Manipur.
The inspection was also joined by representatives of the Southern Angami Public Organisation (SAPO), Kohima Deputy Commissioner and other officials. NHIDCL has assured that restoration work will resume on Tuesday.
