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DIMAPUR — The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has reportedly assured to reopen the landslide-hit National Highway 29 stretch near Dzüdza Bridge by Thursday (August 29) afternoon.
This assurance was given when Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang inspected the landslide area on Wednesday, according to an update. It came after the state government issued a 72-hour deadline to clear the landslide debris, effective from Aug. 26.
Accompanied by Women Resource Development and Horticulture Minister Salhoutuonuo Kruse, TR Zeliang interacted with NHIDCL officials, contractors and Western Angami Public Organisation (WAPO) leaders during the visit.
While acknowledging the challenges posed by natural calamities, he expressed concern over what he described as a lackadaisical approach by the implementing agency and contractors, leading to prolonged road blockades and hardships for commuters, the update stated.
Emphasising the urgency of reopening the road, he urged the NHIDCL and contractors to stick to the 72-hour timeline set by the state government for clearing of debris and opening the road to the public, to which the NHIDCL assured that the road would be opened by Thursday afternoon.
The deputy chief minister slammed the NHIDCL and contractors for failing to adhere to the resolutions adopted during a quarterly monsoon preparedness meeting and also highlighted the inadequate deployment of machinery and manpower at the landslide site, contributing to delays in clearing the debris.
He cautioned the contractor against exploiting the situation or making excuses, urging them to prioritise public interest by deploying maximum resources to expedite road reopening. He also directed NHIDCL to issue a formal notice to the contractor if the latter ceases work.
Further, the Dy CM urged NHIDCL to leverage modern technology and engineering solutions in Nagaland, given the prevalence of landslides in the region. He also instructed the Kohima Deputy Commissioner to convene frequent coordination meetings to ensure smooth execution of project.