Villagers reinforce the eroded edge of Dubagaon–Khughovi Bailey Bridge with bamboo and cement bags to prevent further damage from the swelling Chathe River.
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DIMAPUR — Villagers of Khughovi, assisted by neighbouring communities, have temporarily restored the Bailey bridge connecting Dubagaon and Khughovi villages in Niuland district after it came close to being submerged as Chathe River swelled on Sunday morning.
A resident of Khughovi village, who was present during the social work, said that the bridge—constructed only two years ago—faced unprecedented water levels this year.
He explained that debris and garbage carried downstream had clogged the bridge, rendering it impassable to vehicles, while the connecting edges weakened as floodwaters eroded the soil beneath.
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Given that the road serves as a vital lifeline for students, commuters, and emergency services, villagers undertook the social work to make temporary repairs.
They stabilised the weakened portions with stone dust and cement bags to keep the structure functional until the government undertakes permanent restoration.
The villagers expressed gratitude to the Dimapur Division Executive Engineer and the Kuhuboto SDO (Civil), who visited the site on Sunday to assess the situation.
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They stressed that the road is a major link for Niuland areas and urged the government to initiate immediate maintenance.
They further informed that agricultural fields in the area have been badly damaged by floodwaters.
Appealing to the government for intervention, the villagers also sought the assistance of the Advisor of the Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department, Zhaleo Rio.
Meanwhile, volunteers from neighbouring villages joined the effort to restore connectivity and have advised commuters to exercise caution while crossing the bridge until repairs are made permanent.