Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday visited the landslide-affected stretch of National Highway-2 at Phesama near Kohima. During his inspection, he emphasized the urgent need for both short-term and permanent solutions to restore connectivity and prevent future disruptions.
Highlighting the recurring nature of landslides in the region, Rio said, “This is not a one-time issue. These challenges have persisted since our childhood.” He acknowledged the hilly and landslide-prone terrain of Nagaland and stressed the importance of developing an alternative route built to full National Highway specifications to accommodate heavy traffic. He warned that relying on village roads would lead to further damage due to the burden of highway vehicles.
“National Highways are the lifelines of a nation. They are essential for connectivity and economic growth,” the Chief Minister stated. He assured that the state government is working in close coordination with implementing agencies to ensure swift restoration of the damaged stretch.
Rio interacted with officials from the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and urged them to avoid temporary repairs. He called for the use of concrete, iron rods, and piling where necessary. “Construct a proper cement concrete bridge, and if needed, build a flyover so debris can pass below without blocking the road,” he advised.
Executive Director of NHIDCL, R. P. Singh, informed the Chief Minister that continuous rains had turned the ground into slush, making it difficult for restoration machinery to access the site. He mentioned that a 37-metre section of the road had completely sunk and that temporary restoration work might be possible by August 18, weather permitting.
Rio acknowledged the constraints of working during the monsoon but instructed agencies to create a temporary passage and start concrete work once the rains ease. “The real landslip danger is expected in August-September. A long-term strategy must be in place,” he said.
He also stressed the strategic importance of this route, which connects to the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama—the venue of the internationally recognized Hornbill Festival. “Last year, repair work went on till the last minute. This time, we must plan ahead and coordinate with NHIDCL, the district administration, and all stakeholders,” Rio said.
The Chief Minister also warned against improper debris disposal during landslide clearance, urging that it be managed carefully to avoid damage to surrounding infrastructure.
In a candid remark about Nagaland’s infrastructure challenges, Rio joked, “Nagaland has only two seasons—mud season and dust season—due to human negligence.” He called on all departments and agencies to unite in ensuring better planning and disaster preparedness. “Let’s not wait until the last moment. We must be ready,” he concluded.
Deputy Chief Ministers T. R. Zeliang and Y. Patton, along with legislators S. Keoshu Yimkhiung, Kropol Vitsu, and Kevipodi Sophie, accompanied the Chief Minister during the inspection.
The NH-2 stretch connecting Kohima to Imphal in the Southern Angami region sank completely on June 2 following heavy rainfall.
