Correspondent
KOHIMA, SEP 19 (NPN): The condition of National Highway-29 (Kohima-Dimapur) has deteriorated significantly, with extensive potholes, blocked stretches and drainage problems causing difficulties for motorists and raising road safety concerns.
Observations along the highway found around seven strategic points where one side of the road was completely blocked, while at least 15 other locations were partially blocked. Potholes have become a persistent problem, with motorists reportedly finding hardly a kilometre of road without damaged stretches.
Poor drainage and water accumulation have further contributed to the deterioration, while increasing the risk of landslides and additional damage to the highway. A particularly vulnerable stretch is located below Kezanu/Kimho (KMC old dumping zone), where a landslide has raised concerns that Kohima-Dimapur road could eventually be cut off if the situation worsened. Continued soil movement, coupled with inadequate drainage, could pose a threat to connectivity along the stretch.
The deteriorating road surface is also creating hazardous conditions for motorists. Vehicles have been seen moving from one side of the highway to the other to avoid potholes and damaged sections. Such sudden movements can increase the risk of collisions, particularly when vehicles approach from opposite directions.
Another concern is the apparent lack of workers clearing or maintaining some of the affected stretches. With several sections already blocked or partially blocked, further deterioration could disrupt traffic and affect the movement of passengers and essential goods.
The condition of NH-29 highlights the need for road maintenance, drainage management, removal of obstructions and attention to landslide-prone stretches.
Regular monitoring and timely intervention would be required to prevent further deterioration and maintain connectivity along the highway.