Dzüdza stretch of NH-29 partially reopens for Dimapur-bound trucks

KOHIMA — After nearly two weeks of complete closure, the National Highway-29 connecting Kohima and Dimapur saw a partial reopening on Thursday evening, allowing some Dimapur-bound trucks to pass through the landslide-affected stretch near Dzüdza Bridge.

According to Kohima traffic police, approximately 40 trucks were carefully guided through the partially cleared section of the highway. However, the passage was not without challenges. Several trucks were stuck in the mud and debris, requiring assistance of excavator.

The intention was to let the stranded trucks go first as they have been stuck for many days. For now, there is no chance for light vehicles to pass through the road, the police source added.

Meanwhile, it was informed that the Kohima traffic police distributed essential commodities and groceries to the stranded drivers on Wednesday.

It may be recalled that massive landslides, triggered by heavy rainfall, completely blocked the crucial highway two weeks ago, bringing traffic to a standstill. While clearance work has been ongoing, progress has been hampered by persistent rain, continuous soil erosion from a height of approximately 300 meters above the road, and a shortage of machinery at the site. Further delays were caused by a one-day halt in clearance operations.

The state government had previously set a 72-hour deadline, effective Aug. 26, for clearing the landslide debris.