Kohima-Mao road reopens at Phesama after restoration, traffic allowed under strict regulations

KOHIMA — After nearly three months of restoration work at the sunken stretch of road at Phesama near Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, along National Highway-2, the Kohima-Mao route has been reopened for regulated traffic movement from Saturday afternoon.

The affected section of NH-2, which had fully collapsed on June 1, serves as a crucial arterial route linking Kohima to Mao Gate and remains a lifeline for commuters in Nagaland and Manipur.

On Saturday morning, officials of the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL), led by its executive director, inspected the restored road. Later in the afternoon, Kohima deputy commissioner (DC), Kohima Police, and other officials also visited the site.

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Following the inspection, the DC issued a ‘Traffic Advisory’ informing that one-way movement of light motor vehicles (LMVs) would be allowed with immediate effect under strict regulations.

As per the advisory, traffic will remain suspended between 10 am and 2 pm daily to facilitate ongoing restoration works. An alternative route via Phesama–Kisama/Kigwema through Rhododendron Resort will continue to remain open.

Authorities cautioned that in the event of heavy rainfall, vehicular movement on the stretch would be suspended due to landslide risks.

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Movement of heavy vehicles, including water tankers, paramilitary vehicles, and commercial passenger carriers, will remain prohibited until further notice.

Meanwhile, the contractor informed that works on gabions, drainage systems, culverts, and other reinforcement measures below the road are still in progress and will take some more time to complete.