DIMAPUR: An emergency meeting of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Longleng was convened at the DPDB hall, Longleng on July 27 to assess the destruction caused by the recent natural calamities.
According to DIPR report, the meeting deliberated on measures for clearance and restoration of roads affected by landslides and mudslides. Advisor for Airways and Railways, A. Pongshi Phom, and B. Bangtick Phom MLA also attended the meeting.
Addressing the gathering, Pongshi said the entire Phom area had been affected by the disaster that struck on July 19 and 20, crippling road connectivity across the region. He termed the incident deeply unfortunate but expressed relief that no loss of life or major property damage was reported. He appreciated the support extended by the District Administration, Phom Peoples’ Council, churches, student bodies, civil societies and members of the public during the crisis.
He further stated that distribution of ration and basic amenities would be coordinated with the Deputy Commissioner and carried out equitably across all sections of society. The public was urged to cooperate and exercise patience until normalcy is restored. He also appealed to citizens not to misuse the free transportation services provided by the government, adding that priority would be given to students and sick persons.
Officials encouraged the public to remain calm and assured that concerned departments were working to restore normalcy at the earliest. Both MLAs assured to submit detailed data records and road profiles collected from the damaged areas to the Chief Secretary .
DC and chairman DDMA Longleng, W. Manpai Phom, chaired the meeting and thanked the MLAs for their presence. He presented a detailed ground assessment of rock, mud, debris and avalanches in Longleng district through a PowerPoint presentation, and informed that all data records and road profiles had been prepared for submission to the Chief Secretary.
The meeting was attended by members of DDMA Longleng, HoDs and civil society organisations, and concluded with a prayer pronounced by executive secretary PBCA, N. Tialemba Phom.
DC Longleng issues travel advisory on alternate route, fares
In view of the ongoing road blockage and clearing operations along the primary route, Deputy Commissioner Longleng has notified passengers and commuters travelling from Longleng to Kohima and Dimapur of temporary arrangements.
Alternate Route: Commuters are advised to travel via the designated alternative route-Longleng-Tuensang-Chare-Mokokchung-until further notice, while clearance and restoration work on the main highway continues.
Luggage & Weight Restrictions: Passengers are strictly requested to carry limited baggage of 5 kg per person and avoid overweight luggage to ensure vehicle stability and safe travel along the challenging terrain.
Revision in Taxi Fares: Owing to the extended distance and travel time, a temporary upward revision in taxi fares has been sanctioned. The revised fares are: Longleng-Dimapur Rs. 1,600; Longleng-Kohima Rs. 1,500; Longleng-Tuensang Rs. 600.
Resumption of Normal Route & Rates: Normal transit routes and standard fare structures will resume immediately once the main road is cleared and restored for safe vehicular movement.
The DC further informed that all passenger vehicle operators and commuters are requested to cooperate with local authorities and traffic personnel.
