DIMAPUR — The village councils of Kidima, Kezoma, and Kezo Basa under the upper Kezochazou range have issued an open letter to the government of Nagaland, urging immediate intervention to repair the Chakhabama-Kezoma-Kidima-Mao road, which they say has suffered significant damage due to heavy vehicular traffic following the disruption of National Highway-2 (NH-2) at Phesama.

According to the letter, the road has been serving as an alternative route for light vehicles since a major landslide occurred more than a month ago in the Phesama area, below Kisama. This landslide rendered a vital stretch of NH-2 unusable, prompting the Deputy Commissioner of Kohima to issue a traffic advisory on June 1, directing light vehicles to use the BSF Camp–Chakhabama–Kidima–Viswema/Mao Gate route.

The village councils noted that despite this directive, the alternative road has witnessed a steady flow of heavy-loaded vehicles in large numbers each day, causing the road to deteriorate to the point where it is becoming increasingly difficult for local residents to travel.

They also expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the promised restoration of NH-2. They recalled that, following government visits and high-level assurances, the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) had publicly committed to restoring the damaged section of NH-2 within 10 days.

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“Yet, so far, the restoration of NH-2 remains to be seen and the Chakhabama-Kezoma-Kidima-Mao Road is being battered beyond recognition,” the letter stated.

In their joint appeal, the three village councils expressed deep concern over the worsening condition of the two roads, especially given its importance not only for local connectivity but also for linking parts of southern Angami and acting as a vital route for the neighbouring state of Manipur. They stressed the urgency of repairing the road and implementing effective traffic regulation to prevent further damage and ensure safe passage for residents and travellers.

In this connection, the village councils urged the department of Roads and Bridges and the district administration to take prompt and concrete steps to address the issue.