Wokha: A massive mudslide struck Saron Colony (Ward-15) in Wokha Town around 1 am on Tuesday after several days of incessant rainfall, leaving a Tuensang-bound night bus stranded and submerging an Alto car parked along National Highway-2.
According to residents, the recurring problem stems from the absence of a proper culvert. While two ring pipes were installed by the concerned department, they have proven inadequate to withstand heavy water flow and often get clogged, forcing rainwater to spill onto the highway. This year alone, similar incidents have already been reported twice.
Wobemo Ezung, Chairman of Saron Colony, said the colony has repeatedly appealed to the district administration and highway authorities for over four years, but no action has been taken. The situation has created hardships for students and daily commuters. He warned that if no steps are taken, “residents may be compelled to block the national highway.”
The colony members have demanded the removal of the existing ring pipes and the construction of a proper slab culvert to prevent further blockages and hazards.
Supporting the demand, N. Samuel Ezung, Chairman of Niropen Colony and President of the Wokha Town Colonies Union, said the issue recurs every monsoon season. “The stretch from Saron to Niropen Colony is the worst affected, and commuters are often stranded until residents step in to assist,” he said. He further noted that several roads across Wokha town have been damaged this monsoon and urged authorities to prioritise urgent repairs and preventive measures.
Meanwhile, the Joint Action Committee (JAC) on NH-2 (Niropen to Hammock Resort) has expressed serious concern over the poor quality of roadwork in Wokha Town. It cited lack of supervision, incomplete drainage and culvert systems, and the absence of qualified technical personnel during construction.
The committee highlighted that on September 14, JAC members observed labourers attempting to fill potholes during heavy rainfall without proper machinery—an act it described as “technically unsound and counterproductive.” Such practices, JAC said, appear aimed at creating an impression of progress rather than ensuring durable repairs.
Calling for strict monitoring, the JAC urged the concerned departments and the district administration to conduct periodic inspections to ensure accountability and quality control. It also appealed for public cooperation, particularly during the laying of stone slabs on road flanks, as landowner disturbances have reportedly delayed works in some areas.
The committee further encouraged civil societies and citizens to remain vigilant and report defects promptly. Reaffirming its commitment, JAC said it would continue to closely monitor developments to safeguard public interest.
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