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DIMAPUR — Following the devastating landslides that claimed six lives and severed key transportation arteries in Nagaland, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio convened a high-level meeting on Wednesday to address the crisis and outline immediate relief measures.
During the meeting, the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) was directed to expedite the release of ex-gratia payments to families who lost loved ones and individuals who were injured, with disbursement handled through the respective district disaster management authorities.
Among others, the meeting, attended by Deputy Chief Minister and Minister-in-charge of National Highways alongside relevant officials and agencies, prioritised the urgent restoration of NH-29.
The National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) was directed to ensure that the NH-29 becomes operational within 24 hours and ensure that the flow of essential supplies such as fuel, food, and other necessities are not adversely affected.
To ensure that connectivity is not hampered, authorities identified three alternative routes. The 7th Mile NH 29 Sukhovi-Mhainamtsi-Jharnapani route will be open to both light and heavy vehicles, while the Showuba-Niuland-Zhadima-NH 2 and the New Chümoukedima to Old Chümoukedima (Old Check Gate) routes will be designated for light vehicles only.
These alternative routes were also notified by the Home department in a subsequent order.
Additionally, all light as well as heavy vehicles bound for other districts including Tseminyu, Wokha, Mokokchung, and Zunebhoto from Dimapur have been advised to use the Peducha to Tsiesema road.
The Public Works Department (PWD) has been entrusted with the upkeep of all these alternative routes, as well as the Peducha to Tsiesema road, to ensure uninterrupted connectivity between Dimapur and Kohima.
Further, the NHIDCL was directed to take rectification measures including deployment of latest technology to ensure that such events do not occur in future, so that the highway which is a lifeline for both Nagaland and Manipur is maintained throughout the year.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang, who is also in-charge of National Highways, issued a statement, urging the public to adhere to the safety advisories. Stating that the government remains steadfast in keeping the people safe and prevent future tragedies, he said that all concerned agencies are already in place and are working round the clock to restore the damaged highway.
Governor urges solidarity
In a statement on Wednesday, Governor of Nagaland, La. Ganesan expressed sorrow over the loss of lives in the tragic landslides. Extending condolences to the families, he said that the state government is taking all necessary measures to provide relief and assistance to all those affected. He also wished a speedy recovery to all the injured.
“In these challenging times, the Governor calls upon the people of Nagaland to come together in solidarity and offer every possible support to assist those in need,” the statement read.
He also acknowledged the unwavering efforts of the district administration, police, government departments, local authorities and volunteers who have been working tirelessly in the affected areas.