DIMAPUR: The Shamator Town Public Forum (STPF) has raised serious concern over the prolonged disruption of NH-202 at two major landslide-affected stretches near NAP camp, Shamator and Shungkiu Village. Both stretches have become completely unmotorable, cutting off vital connectivity for Shamator district.
In a press release issued by STPF president Kiumehen and secretary, Yimsokhiung stated that the landslide near NAP camp has been affecting the road since 2024 and extends approximately 200–300 metres, while the massive landslide near Shungkiu Village which has remained cut off since 2018, extends about 400–500 metres. The Forum stated that both stretches are now beyond ordinary repair and require permanent reconstruction with proper engineering intervention.
Alternative routes not viable
Due to the blockage, commuters are forced to use alternative routes that add 10–20 kilometres to the journey. However, the STPF highlighted that the issue is not only the additional distance but also the risks posed by poor road conditions, landslide-prone areas, and narrow stretches. These diversions are particularly hazardous during the monsoon season and pose serious risks to patients, pregnant women, the elderly, and those requiring urgent medical attention. The Forum stressed that the people of Shamator District should not be compelled to rely on unsafe and lengthy diversions simply because NH-202 has remained cut off for years.
NH-202 as district lifeline
The STPF underscored that NH-202 is the lifeline of Shamator district, connecting it to Kiphire and Pungro Headquarters. The continued blockage has disrupted transportation, healthcare, education, administration, trade, and the overall socio-economic life of the district. The Forum expressed particular concern that the Shungkiu stretch has remained cut off for nearly eight years, calling the situation unacceptable.
STPF’s demands
The Forum urged the State Government to take up the matter with National Highway authorities on the highest priority and ensure: immediate technical inspection and assessment of both landslide-affected locations; immediate measures for restoration of temporary connectivity wherever feasible; permanent reconstruction of the 400–500 metre Shungkiu stretch; permanent restoration and reconstruction of the 200–300 metre NAP stretch; proper slope stabilisation, drainage, retaining structures, and other scientific engineering measures to prevent recurring landslides; a clear, time-bound action plan for permanent restoration instead of repeated temporary repairs and assurances.
Call for YTC intervention
The STPF earnestly requested the Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC) to take up the issue with topmost priority before the State Government and pursue it until a permanent solution is delivered. The Forum reiterated that alternative routes cannot be considered a permanent solution, stressing that eight years of blockage at Shungkiu and continued disruption at NAP cannot be allowed to persist.
The STPF concluded by calling upon the State Government and National Highway authorities to treat NH-202 as an urgent public infrastructure and safety issue. It emphasised that NH-202 is not merely a road but the lifeline of Shamator District, and the people deserve safe, reliable, and all-weather connectivity instead of prolonged blockages, dangerous diversions, and temporary assurances.