Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang, who also serves as the Minister in charge of Planning & Transformation and National Highways, convened a crucial meeting on September 11, 2024, to address pressing issues related to the road sector in Nagaland. Held at the Chief Secretary’s Conference Room at the Nagaland Civil Secretariat in Kohima, the meeting saw participation from key figures including the Chief Secretary, Engineer-in-Chief of NPWD, Chief Engineers of PWD (NH) and PWD (R&B), Executive Director (RO Kohima) of NHIDCL, and a representative from Project Sewak (BRO).
The Deputy Chief Minister expressed deep concern over the deteriorating condition of the state’s roads, which have been significantly impacted by incessant rains and other natural factors. He urged the implementing agencies to work diligently to repair the damage and ensure the smooth flow of traffic.
For stretches under NHIDCL, including the NH-29 4-Lane road and NH-02, which have been persistently affected by landslides, mudslides, and sinking, NHIDCL has committed to restoring two-way traffic by the end of October. In Pagla Pahar, where a major portion of the highway was washed away by a river, NHIDCL proposed a short-term solution to maintain traffic flow and suggested a long-term plan to divert the river’s course to prevent future incidents. The Deputy Chief Minister instructed NHIDCL to seek necessary clearances from the DC of Chumukedima and advised against the use of blasting to avoid destabilizing surrounding areas.
The Chief Secretary directed NHIDCL to ensure that debris from landslides in the Pherima and Piphema areas does not obstruct scenic views. Regarding the Dzudza landslide, NHIDCL requested a one-week traffic closure to facilitate restoration work, and was advised to coordinate with the District Administration to minimize disruptions for commuters.
In areas affected by landslides on NH-02, NHIDCL assured that restoration work would be completed by October, with contractors engaged to expedite the process. On the fresh landslide near KMC Old dumping site on NH-29, under NPWD (NH), the Engineer-in-Chief and Chief Engineer (NH) promised that the road would be reopened by the evening of September 11, 2024. The State National Highway Department highlighted a lack of funds for emergency and maintenance work, prompting the Deputy Chief Minister and Commissioner & Secretary (W&H) to request a proposal for additional funds to manage emergencies and maintain NH-29.
The meeting also addressed the importance of maintaining bypass roads used when NH-29 is affected. The Chief Engineer of NPWD (R&B) presented plans for seven bypass roads and emphasized their critical role given the uncertain condition of NH-29. Short-term and long-term plans, including expansion and blacktopping, are being prepared for submission to the Ministry for approval.
Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang concluded by acknowledging the challenge of managing natural disasters but emphasized the responsibility of each agency to minimize public inconvenience. He urged for enhanced coordination among all agencies to ensure efficient traffic management despite natural adversities.
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