Kohima District Congress Committee demands immediate restoration of NH-2 at Phesama, highlighting hardships faced by students and commuters.
DIMAPUR — The Kohima District Congress Committee (DCC) has expressed serious concern over the prolonged disruption of National Highway-2 at Phesama village in the Kohima district, which has remained cut off since June this year following a severe landslide caused by incessant rainfall and adverse weather conditions.
According to a press release from Kohima DCC, the prolonged closure has severely affected commuters, villagers, students, and the general public who depend on this vital road. Students travelling from Kohima to educational institutions in the area have been particularly affected.
It was alleged that with the main route unusable, they are forced to depend on taxis, as the alternate route is too steep and difficult for heavy vehicles, including college buses and private bus services.
Students are reportedly spending at least INR 500 for a round trip by taxi. The KDCC stated that for many families, this recurring expense is a significant financial burden. The committee expressed concern that continued transportation difficulties could affect students' regular attendance and academic progress.
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While appreciating the efforts of the Phesama Village Council, Southern Angami Public Organisation, and local MLAs of the Southern Angami region for raising the issue and pressing the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) for early restoration, the KDCC noted that there is still no visible physical progress on the ground. The committee termed the continued delay unacceptable and stated that it adds to the hardship of the people.
The KDCC pointed out that the Phesama road is not merely a local route but a lifeline for the villages of Southern Angami and a crucial link to neighbouring Manipur, affecting education, transportation, healthcare, trade, and livelihoods.
The committee strongly urged the NHIDCL to expedite restoration work and make the highway motorable without further delay.
At the same time, the KDCC appealed to the state government and the deputy chief minister in charge of National Highways to immediately provide interim transportation support to affected students through subsidised transport or government pool vehicles until normal connectivity is restored.