An affected family dismantles its house at New Colony, Zunheboto, as the ground beneath the settlement continues to deteriorate. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | August 18
The National Highway-702A at New Colony, Zunheboto, has been completely cut off following a massive and active landslide, with the situation worsening through the evening.
According to information received from the Colony GB at around 8:30 pm, the road has been completely washed away, leaving no portion of the highway passable for vehicular movement.
Additional information from people currently at the scene indicates that the landslide is continuing intermittently, with fresh soil and debris coming down from the hillside. The houses that were dismantled earlier this morning have reportedly now been completely taken down by the advancing landslide.
Vehicular movement along the affected stretch has been stopped, while people at the site are having to walk through soft and unstable soil. The landslide has reportedly also begun reaching the road, with soil coming down from the area above the Assam Rifles camp.
A number of people are reportedly still at the scene, guarding and monitoring the area amid the continuing landslide activity.
Travellers are strongly advised to avoid the affected stretch of NH-702A until further notice.
As an alternative route, travellers may use the Lizu–Naghuto route via the Assam Rifles camp and Old Town Colony area.
Further details regarding the extent of the damage, the safety of nearby residents and restoration efforts are awaited.
