Amid mounting safety concerns along the Dimapur-Kohima 4-lane National Highway 29, particularly in the treacherous Paglapahar stretch, the Nagaland Government has intensified its efforts.
In a decisive move, the State cabinet commissioned IIT Guwahati to conduct an independent study aimed at recommending crucial safety measures. Notably, concerns were raised regarding the premature issuance of completion certificates for Dimapur-Kohima Package-II by the NHIDCL, despite ongoing quality and completion issues.
The State Government’s resolve was further strengthened in April 2024 when it directed the NHIDCL to furnish a comprehensive report detailing specific safety measures implemented along the perilous Paglapahar stretch. Highlighting accountability, the NHIDCL has been cautioned against any lapses that could lead to unfortunate incidents.
Following a significant rockfall incident on July 4, 2023, the State promptly constituted a High-Level Technical Committee or HLTC the next day. The HLTC swiftly investigated the incident and submitted its findings and recommendations to the NHIDCL on July 19, 2023. Immediate short-term measures were recommended, alongside plans for a comprehensive terrain study to preempt future risks.
In December 2023, concerns were highlighted by an Independent Technical Expert Committee from IIT Bombay, highlighting deviations from IRC guidelines, inadequate slope protection, and substandard rockfall mitigation methods. The NHIDCL was mandated to rectify these discrepancies promptly, ensuring NH-29’s compliance with safety and quality standards.
Despite the State Government’s repeated calls for action, tangible safety improvements along the highway have been slow to materialise. A recent rockfall incident at Paglapahar further asserts the urgency for strong and immediate measures.
The State Government urges the NHIDCL to prioritise safety enhancements with utmost seriousness, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring the security and reliability of the Dimapur-Kohima highway for all commuters.
