CM Rio inspects landslide damage on NH-29, says state government very upset with NHIDCL

Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, conducted an on-site visit to the landslide-affected areas along National Highway-29, which were severely damaged by the landslide on the night of September 3, 2024. The landslide at Pherima tragically claimed six lives and caused extensive property damage.

During his visit, Rio assessed the damage in areas such as Dzüdza in Kohima, Pherima, and Pakala Pahar in Chumoukedima. The Chief Minister interacted with the public of Pherima and assured them of the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns. He said that efforts are being made to restore normalcy, stating that the government will “strive to minimize inconvenience to citizens.”

Rio expressed his dissatisfaction with the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) for their inadequate preparedness for monsoon-related disasters.

Speaking to the media in Chumoukedima, he highlighted the poor quality of earth fillings beneath the highway, which he had previously warned would be unsafe when water level rises.

“Yesterday, I had a full-length meeting with NHIDCL and state officials and pointed out their mistakes,” Rio said, adding that the government had also filed an FIR against NHIDCL for failing to meet safety standards.

The Chief Minister recalled a conversation with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, where he mentioned the FIR and criticized NHIDCL for not doing a good job. Gadkari reportedly responded, “If they are not doing a good job, issue a warrant of arrest—non-bailable.”

“State government is very upset,” he said.

During his inspection, Rio directed NHIDCL to ensure that at least one lane of the highway is operational as soon as possible to allow the emergency transportation of essential commodities.

Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Zhaleo Rio, also visited the affected areas at Pherima and Kukidolong. He interacted with local residents, listened to their grievances, and urged them to submit proof of their losses to the authorities for compensation.

Rokolhu Angami, contractor and proprietor of Nagaamii Infra.con. Pvt. Ltd., voluntarily cleared obstacles and damaged vehicles from the affected section of National Highway 29 in Pherima Village.

MT