Dimapur: In light of the massive landslide along the Kohima-Mao stretch of National Highway 2 (NH-02) at Phesama in Nagaland which has severely disrupted the movement of essential goods and passenger vehicles bound for Manipur for a month now, the Government of Manipur has notified two alternative routes on Wednesday.
The landslide had occurred between Chainage 192.050 km and 192.150 km, a critical section that connects Nagaland to Manipur.
The National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) had initiated restoration work at the affected site. Although the Nagaland government has made land available for the operation, officials noted that the scale of damage is extensive and full restoration will require time.
In the interim, diversion routes have been activated to maintain light motor vehicle (LMV) movement between the two states:
Route 1 (193 km): Dimapur – Kohima – Phesama – Kisama – Jakhama – Mao – Maram – Imphal
Route 2 (207 km, for 2-axle load vehicles): Dimapur – Kohima – Chakabama – Kidima – Mao – Maram – Imphal
Out of the 28 km stretch between Mao – Kidima – Chakhabhama, it includes a 9-kilometre stretch within Manipur, currently maintained by the state Public Works Department (PWD). Officials confirmed that widening and granular sub-base work is ongoing, with further surfacing to be undertaken once weather conditions improve. The route remains operational for both goods and passenger vehicles without significant disruptions.
Acknowledging Nagaland’s assistance in implementing the diversion plans for LMV, Principal Secretary (Works), Government of Manipur, A.K. Sinha has communicated with the Commissioner/Secretary (Works), Government of Nagaland suggesting alternative routes for Heavy Vehicles to ensure that essential supplies to Manipur via Dimapur are not affected.
Two alternate routes capable of withstanding traffic of all vehicles up to 3-axle load (25 MT) are planned as below:
Route 1 (293 km): Dimapur – Jharnapani – Jalukie – Peren – Maram – Imphal
Route 2 (372 km): Dimapur – Kohima – Chakabama – Jessami – Ukhrul – Imphal
Officials have urged transporters and the public to adhere to the diversion plans and cooperate with ongoing restoration efforts.