2 VILLAGES IMPOSE INDEFINITE TRAVEL BAN ON NIULAND-ZHADIMA ROAD STRETCH
The stretch of the 4-lane along NH 29 along Chathe/Tsiedukhru (Pagalapahar), which was closed after a portion of the road was washed away and also buried debris of mudslides on September 14, 2025, has been partially re-opened under certain conditions.
This was informed through a press communiqué by Dimapur police through a traffic advisory by commissioner of police (CP) Dimapur Aotula T. Imchen.
The CP informed that vehicular traffic (LMV) along the affected NH-29 stretch would be permitted in a “single lane” with restricted traffic regulation as on September 15, 2025.
The CP also informed that movement of heavy motor vehicle (HMV) (upto 6 wheels) along the affected NH stretch would be allowed only from 8 a.m. of September 16, 2025.
However, police informed that in case of heavy rainfall the affected NH-29 stretch would be closed for vehicular movement without notice. In view of the safety concern, the police have advised the people to avoid non-essential halt/ stoppage along the affected stretch especially during rainfall.
Further, Police also informed that the bypass route from New Chümoukedima to Old Chümoukedima and vice versa would be open for traffic movement in staggered manner.
Indefinite ban
Meanwhile, adding to movement woes, vehicular movement on Niuland-Zhadima road stretch will be banned from September 16 from 6 a.m. onwards.
The ban on plying of vehicles along the road stretch was to protest against neglect of the road which has turned in to a deplorable condition.
The ban on vehicular movement was among the resolutions adopted after a joint consultative meeting between Hovishe and Ghotovi villages under Niuland district held on September 15 at Niuland town to deliberate on the deplorable condition of the Niuland-Zhadima road, described as a lifeline for many commuters.
At the meeting, the villagers of Hovishe and Ghotovi lamented that the state government ignored their long standing demand for proper construction of the road into a vital all-weather route, through repeated representations and appeals.
Having exhausted all efforts, the two villages at the joint meeting collectively and unanimously resolved to impose a ban on vehicular movement along the stretch from September 16, 6 a.m. onwards.
The ban will apply to all vehicles, including government vehicles, until further notice. However, the two villages announced exemptions for police, medical and paramilitary services.
The villages also issued a travel advisory, informing the public not to use the Niuland–Zhadima road, warning that any individual or vehicle plying the route would do so entirely at their own risk.
The meeting resolved that the ban would continue until the government takes immediate steps for the construction of the Niuland–Zhadima road. The joint resolution was signed by G. Kahoto Zhimo, head GB-cum-chairman, Ghotovi Village Council; Vikato Yeptho, GB Hovishe village; Katoho Holo, head GB Hovishe village; V. Katovi Holo member Hovishe village council; Kasheto T. Holo, head GB Hovishe village; and Zheito Tuccu, member Ghotovi village council.
More rains predicted
Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) has predicted that Nagaland would witness thunderstorm and lightning with light to intermittent moderate rain at most places till September 18, 2025.
In a press release, NSDMA stated that Shamator and Tuensang districts would however witness heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorm and lightning on September 16.
As a result, NSDMA has advised the people to take necessary measures. Due to the risk of high precipitation in the hill sector, NSDMA said Nagaland’s lowland and foothill districts were vulnerable to inundated waterlogging and flash floods.
In this regard, it advised the low-lying districts to implement the precautionary measures.
For any emergencies, contact state emergency operation centre (SEOC): Toll Free 1070, 112 (ERSS for Disaster Management), 0370-2291120/ 0370-2291122.