A major landslide hit National Highway 702A at New Colony, Zunheboto, on August 19, damaging three houses and disrupting vehicular movement along the Zunheboto-Mokokchung road.
The three houses located near the landslide had been evacuated beforehand as a precautionary measure. The structures were subsequently completely damaged by the landslide, while no loss of life or injury was reported. One building in the vicinity has also reportedly developed visible cracks, raising concerns over structural safety and the possibility of further ground movement.
The landslide brought a substantial amount of earth and debris onto the highway, prompting authorities to temporarily close the affected road stretch. In a travel advisory issued on August 19, Deputy Commissioner Zunheboto Dharam Raj stated that the road would remain closed until further orders due to damage caused by the landslide following incessant rain.
Following the road closure, heavy vehicles, including loaded trucks and pickups, light vehicles and commercial vehicles travelling between Zunheboto and Mokokchung have been diverted through the Old Mokokchung Road and Check Post Road.
The Deputy Commissioner also distributed relief packages from the Indian Red Cross Society to families affected by the landslide. He interacted with the affected families and assured them of necessary assistance and support from the district administration.
Authorities and concerned departments are assessing the damage and taking measures to ensure public safety and restore road connectivity. Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert and exercise caution, particularly where there are signs of ground movement or structural damage.
Commuters have been urged to follow traffic signage and instructions from officials deployed at the site until the affected highway section is restored.