DIMAPUR: A meeting to review road connectivity affected by the massive landslide that occurred on August 5 at Kewhitsütuo Model, Kohima, was held at the office chamber of the Deputy Commissioner, Kohima on September 10. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, B. Henok Buchem.
According to a DIPR report, the meeting discussed immediate relief measures, road restoration, drainage management and long-term stabilisation of the affected road stretch from Kewhitsütuo Model to IG Stadium, Meriema. Officials from the district administration, Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), Urban Development Department, Kohima Smart City Development Corporation Limited (KSCDL), DIPR and representatives of T Khel Council and Kewhitsütuo Model Council attended.
It was decided that NSDMA, through the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Kohima, would provide relief assistance under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to persons affected by the landslide. The Urban Development Department was directed to maintain alternative routes and assess drains in urban wards and colonies above the affected area to ensure safe discharge of surface water runoff.
KSCDL, under whose jurisdiction the affected road stretch falls, was tasked with undertaking immediate restoration work. The work is tentatively scheduled to commence in October and be completed before December 2026. A proposal estimated at Rs. 1.20 crore for immediate restoration was presented and endorsed for submission to the State Government. KSCDL will also prepare a comprehensive long-term plan for permanent restoration and maintenance of the road.
To facilitate restoration and slope stabilisation works, T Khel Council and Kewhitsütuo Model Council agreed to provide the required No Objection Certificates (NOCs). A joint verification to assess the extent of damage and requirements for restoration has been scheduled for September 14 at 7 AM.
The Deputy Commissioner also briefed the meeting on the ongoing clearance of choked drains at critical locations within Kohima Town.
He urged departments to complete the clearance exercise at the earliest and impressed upon KSCDL to accord priority to the affected road stretch, which serves as an important arterial alternative route to NH-29.
