Fresh mudslides at ‘Pagla Pahar’ shut NH-29 traffic

DIMAPUR — Heavy rainfall on Friday triggered fresh mudslides and rockfalls along the Tsiedukhru range, popularly known as Pagla Pahar, on National Highway-29 connecting Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Kohima, forcing authorities to shut down traffic.

Traffic police reported that three points along the sinking stretch were affected between 3 pm and 4 pm, when continuous rainfall loosened soil and boulders.

Debris damaged a Maruti Alto car, though no casualties were reported. Despite clearance efforts, the hillside remained unstable with repeated mud and rockfalls till late evening.

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Personnel from the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL), aided by machinery, were deployed to clear the debris.

However, police turned back vehicles attempting to pass through, citing safety concerns.

Officials cautioned that further slides remain possible if heavy rain continues. Vehicular movement will remain suspended until stability is restored.

Authorities have appealed to commuters for cooperation and patience to prevent mishaps.

It may be recalled that on May 30 this year, a major rockfall at Pagla Pahar claimed the life of a truck driver.