Mokokchung dist faces severe infrastructure crisis; two villages remain cut off

Morung Express News 
Mokokchung | August 4

Incessant rainfall, landslides and flooding have caused widespread damage to roads, power lines, water-supply systems and public infrastructure across Mokokchung district, affecting connectivity to at least 35 villages. Molungkimong and Yimjenkimong villages in Mangkolemba subdivision have remained completely cut off since July 19.

Deputy Commissioner Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS, briefed the media on the district’s disaster situation, stating that rain is expected to continue through the week, with moderate to heavy rainfall forecast in the coming days. He appealed to residents, village authorities and community leaders to remain alert and promptly report vulnerable locations.

The DC said the worst road damage has been reported from Mangkolemba subdivision, particularly on interior roads. Around eight affected families in the subdivision have received emergency relief from the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), while assessments of damage to houses, agriculture and allied sectors are continuing.

The district has received Rs 36 lakh from the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) to support relief and restoration efforts. Essential commodities are being carried on foot from the nearest vehicle-accessible points to the cut-off villages, while authorities work to restore road connectivity.

Two major landslides at Molungkimong have severely hampered restoration work. NSDMA nodal officer for Mokokchung and Tuensang, Temsuwangsi Jamir, said the smaller landslide stretches for about 100 metres and is being cleared with the support of villagers. The larger slide, however, is extensive and may take considerable time to clear.

Yimjenkimong is also inaccessible due to multiple landslides. Restoration work is under way on the Warumong–Yimjenkimong–Molungkimong road, where sinking portions and landslide-prone stretches have further complicated access. Major landslides have also been reported near Aosungkum and along the Aosenden road, raising concerns that the Mokokchung–Mangkolemba route via Mariani could face further disruption if the rain continues.

The Yajang bridge was damaged on July 19, disrupting the village’s main access route. Villagers, with assistance from the DDMA and in coordination with Assam authorities, have temporarily repaired an alternate route through the nearby NAP camp area using bamboo and wood. Further consultations are being held to speed up restoration of the bridge and road.

On the national highway network, sections of NH-02 have been affected by landslides and road blockages, making the route unsuitable for heavy vehicles. The administration is using NH-702B, the Mokokchung–Mariani route, to maintain the movement of essential commodities and other heavy vehicles. The Public Works Department is maintaining alternate routes until the damaged highway sections can be fully restored.

Tuli subdivision, which experienced flooding following heavy rainfall on July 19 and 20, has also suffered significant damage. About 430 households were affected, though the situation has since stabilised. The relief camp established for affected families is being discontinued, as most residents have moved in with relatives. Relief and support will continue through the DDMA, ADC Tuli and other concerned agencies.

Water supply remains a major concern in Tuli, where pipelines were damaged by flooding. The Public Health Engineering Department has deployed water tankers and is working on temporary pipeline arrangements to restore supply until permanent repairs can be completed. Power supply and mobile-network connectivity were also disrupted in the subdivision.

The Longchem sector has reported serious power disruptions, while damaged power lines in and around Mangkolemba and Yajang are under repair. Authorities said restoration is taking time because of difficult terrain, continuing rain and repeated landslides. The district administration also reported damage to schools, health facilities and agricultural land in several areas. Damage assessments are being compiled by administrative officers in coordination with the agriculture, power, PHE and other departments for submission to the NSDMA.

In Mokokchung town, two persons died in a landslide-related incident. Seven families living in vulnerable locations were shifted to safer areas as a precautionary measure. The administration said district response teams and local authorities have been deployed to identify and monitor landslide-prone areas.

Verma acknowledged assistance from the State Government, NSDMA, community organisations, churches, village councils and the public. He said the administration would continue coordinating with all departments and stakeholders to restore essential services and road connectivity once weather conditions improve.