Landslide cuts off Dimapur-Kohima road

Incessant rainfall once again wreaked havoc along the NH-29 stretch at Pagala Pahar, where a major portion of the road was washed away on Sunday, completely disrupting vehicular movement.
The damaged portion was part of the stretch that had recently undergone restoration by the NHIDCL. However, continuous downpour over the past few days triggered fresh erosion, washing away the repaired section.
Apart from the road collapse, several mudslides were also reported from vulnerable points along the stretch. The Dhansiri river has also swollen due to incessant rain, raising concern among nearby residents in low-lying areas.
Traffic police personnel confirmed that while movement had been totally obstructed, no casualties or injuries were reported. Commuters travelling between Dimapur and Kohima were advised to take alternate routes.
Officials from the district administration and traffic police were on the ground monitoring the situation, while attempts were made to clear debris and restore traffic. However, with rainfall continuing, authorities have closed travel through the affected stretch.
Meanwhile, PWD (NH) along with other officials led by the SDO were seen clearing debris between Chümoukedima and Patkai Bridge. According to reports, four to five rock and mudslides occurred before reaching Patkai Bridge. Goods-laden trucks were also seen stranded near Patkai Bridge as traffic remained disrupted.
On September 12, traffic movement along the Pagala Pahar stretch of NH-29 was severely affected after mudslides completely blocked the highway at multiple locations.
Traffic police officials informed that an Alto car was damaged by falling rocks during the incident, though no injuries were reported.