Unstable cliff over Chümou checkpost endangering lives 

Rock debris, which fell on the road at the Chumoükedima checkpost on March 21. (Morung Photo by Special Arrangement)

Morung Express News
Dimapur | March 21

A precipitous and unstable cliff overlooking the Chumoükedima checkpost is posing to be a serious life hazard to commuters and government personnel posted at the site. 

The checkpost was witness to a massive mudslide back in 2011 when the rock overhang, running a few hundred feet across, caved in letting loose an avalanche of debris. There was no loss of life but the mudslide not only put the checkpost out of service but also stopped vehicular traffic for days. 

Now, with the 4-laning works underway on the stretch, the danger has become all the more prominent. 

On the morning of March 21, Excise personnel stationed at the checkpost had a narrow escape after loose debris from a recently cut rock face caved onto the road. According to one Excise official, personnel stationed at the cliff side narrowly escaped. “Our personnel nearly became casualties while checking at that side of the road,” said the official. 

While stating that the unstable cliff poses a serious threat to life, he said that there are cracks on the cliff exposing loose rock that can fall anytime. “Rocks are perched precariously overhead near the road and some excavated portions have been left without proper removal of debris,” the official said.