Chumoukedima, 4 July (MTNews): In a horrifying incident that unfolded today at around 5:00 pm, a cascade of massive rocks tumbled onto cars along the Chumukedima Highway, resulting in the tragic loss of two lives and injuries to three others. The incident has left the local community shocked and concerned, prompting a swift response from the authorities to address the situation and extend aid to the injured victims.
Preliminary reports indicate that the massive rocks tumbled onto the highway, causing extensive damage to passing vehicles. Amidst the chaos, two individuals tragically lost their lives. As per police source, the deceased have been identified as Hav Thangiu (48) from Nukunuking village in the Noklak district and Temjennochet (55) from Changki village, a resident of Lengrijan.
Additionally, three individuals sustained injuries in the incident. The injured victims were identified as Piming Khiam (42) and Tsoiniu (45) from Nukunuking, Noklak, presently residing in Diphubar B; and Tilaka Pillai (52), the wife of Subramani Pillai from Koma Village, Thiruvur, Tamil Nadu, currently residing at CHSS Pesei Complex, Dimapur.
Police rescue vehicles, accompanied by the Deputy Commissioner of Chumoukedima, were already present at the scene during the time of filing this report. As the story continues to develop, further details are awaited.
Will pursue immediate steps for safety infra: Rio
Meanwhile, chief minister Neiphiu Rio stated that the state government will continue to pursue with the central government and the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL) to take immediate steps for safety infrastructure at the dangerous locations all along the highway. “It concerns the life and safety of our citizens. The agency concerned must put the required safety infrastructure in place,” Rio, who is in Delhi, stated in a series of tweets.
On the latest rockslide accident that claimed 2 lives and caused injuries to 3 others, Rio said that this place has always been known as “pakala pahar” known for landslides and rockslides.
“With the advancement of technology in India and the resources available to the GoI, there should be no compromise in ensuring the safety of our citizens,” Rio added.
He also stated that the State Govt is taking all necessary steps to provide emergency services, grant of ex-gratia for the deceased of Rs 4 lakh each and the necessary medical assistance and help to the injured.
“I convey my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for speedy recovery of those injured,” he added.
Dimapur Police issues advisory
The Commissioner of Police, Dimapur has in a public advisory informed that, given the incessant rainfall and inclement environmental conditions, further rockslides or landslides cannot be ruled out along the Chumoukedima-Kohima National Highway route stretch.
As such, the Commissioner of Police informed that travelers along the said route shall be diverted to 7th Mile-CMD Jn–Shokhuvi-Pimla-Mhainamtsi-Punglwa-Jharnapani-Medziphema and vice versa bypass route with immediate effect till further notice.