The Tuensang DDMA has banned heavy vehicles on the damaged NH-202 stretch near the IOC Petrol Pump due to land subsidence and landslides. The restriction remains in force until further orders.
DIMAPUR — The Tuensang District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has prohibited the movement of all heavy vehicles along the damaged stretch of National Highway-202 near the IOC Petrol Pump at Chainage Km 98.00 following severe land subsidence and landslides triggered by incessant rainfall.
According to an order issued by Deputy Commissioner and DDMA Chairman, Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa, the affected section of the highway has sunk and has been completely cut off.
The alternative diversion route passing through the IOC Petrol Pump has also developed fresh sinking, raising serious safety concerns.
The order stated that a technical assessment by the PWD (National Highways) found that the movement of heavy vehicles was further aggravating the condition of the diversion route, posing an imminent threat to public safety, vehicular movement and the stability of critical infrastructure.
In view of the situation, the DDMA has, under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, imposed an immediate restriction on the movement of all heavy vehicles along the affected stretch until further orders.
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However, Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs), ambulances, fire and emergency service vehicles, police vehicles and other essential emergency service vehicles will be allowed to use the diversion route with caution, subject to strict regulation and safety clearance by the competent authority.
The order further directed all restricted heavy vehicles to make necessary arrangements for transshipment of their loads at the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) located at Chainage Km 87.00.
The district administration warned that any violation of the order would attract penal action under the relevant provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and other applicable laws.
The order came into force with immediate effect and will remain in force until further orders.