Manipur-bound trucks barred from entering Kma

DIMAPUR, AUG 13 (NPN): Manipur-bound heavy vehicles have been temporarily prohibited from entering Kohima district following extensive road damage, active sinking zones and landslides along key routes.
In an order, the district magistrate and DDMC chairman B Henok Buchem said the restriction has been imposed with immediate effect and would remain in force until further orders, citing imminent risks to public safety and property from deteriorating road conditions.
A joint inspection team comprising officials from the district administration, Kohima traffic police, NPWD, NHIDCL, North East Federation of Truck Owners, Drivers and Trade Union and concerned village representatives inspected the road stretch from the New Capital Complex Area (Phizo Hill) Junction to the Kidima-Pudunamei Junction.
The team observed several active sinking zones, including near Chainage Km 30 of the Kohima Bypass under Package-3, where substantial road subsidence has rendered the stretch completely unserviceable for vehicular traffic. Restoration of the affected section is estimated to take at least 15 days.
NH-29 stretch from DBS to BSF Camp, Keyake, was also found to be severely damaged at multiple locations, with active sinking zones making it completely unserviceable for heavy motor vehicles.
PWD (NH), Kohima, in a report dated August 12, corroborated the deteriorated and unsafe conditions and recommended immediate regulation, diversion and restriction of vehicular movement to prevent loss of life and property.
Separately, NHIDCL’s PMU-Jakhama reported that a massive landslide occurred on the night of August 11 at the Phesama Sinking Zone between Chainage 191+840 and 192+100 along the Kohima-Mao section of NH-2. The landslide caused severe slope instability and significant damage to the carriageway, rendering the stretch unfit for vehicular and pedestrian movement.
Under the order, all Manipur-bound heavy vehicles have been advised to use the alternative route through Peren district, subject to prevailing restrictions imposed by the competent authorities there.
Light motor vehicles would continue to use the Phesama-Kisama/Kigwema diversion route via Rhododendron Resort for two-way traffic, subject to road and weather conditions and directions from competent authorities.
Pedestrians have also been strictly advised not to enter, cross or pass through the affected zones because of the risk posed by active landslides, road subsidence and falling debris.