Senapati, July 21: A massive mudslide triggered by relentless rainfall wreaked havoc along the Kohima-Mao bypass near Kisama and Phesama on Sunday, leaving multiple vehicles stranded and at least one overturned. The landslides occurred just below the Rhododendron Resort, where thick mud and debris engulfed the road, halting traffic and raising safety concerns.
Visuals captured from the scene showed the sheer force of the mudslide slowly dragging vehicles down the slope, highlighting the vulnerability of the alternative route connecting Phesama to Kisama and Kigwema during extreme weather conditions.
In response to the natural disaster, the Kohima District Administration promptly issued a traffic advisory to facilitate urgent restoration efforts and ensure public safety. Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem, NCS, announced that the affected section of the road would remain completely closed to all traffic on Monday, July 21, from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
During this closure, only emergency vehicles—such as those involved in medical services and the transportation of school or college students—will be permitted to use National Highway-2, which has been partially restored for limited traffic. All other light motor vehicles (LMVs) have been directed to take the diversion route via Kigwema – Kezo Town/Chakhabama – Kohima.
