In a tragic incident that unfolded on a highway in Nagaland, massive rocks came tumbling down, crushing three cars and claiming the lives of two individuals. The horrifying incident, captured on video, has since gone viral, shedding light on the dangers posed by landslides in the region.
The incident occurred on National Highway 29 near the Old Chumoukedima police checkpost at approximately 5 pm. A large boulder rolled onto the highway, crushing two stationary cars in its path. In a matter of seconds, another smaller boulder rammed into a third car, exacerbating the devastation.
The shocking video, recorded by a vehicle’s dashcam from behind the impacted cars, captured the terrifying moment as the vehicles were reduced to a mangled heap of metal. The cars were traveling from the Kohima side when the incident occurred.
Tragically, two people lost their lives in the incident, with another three sustaining injuries. One individual died on the spot, while the other succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment at the Referral Hospital. The injured individuals are currently receiving medical attention at the hospital. A rescue operation was necessary to extricate a person who had become trapped inside one of the cars.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio expressed his condolences for the lives lost and announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs 4 lakh each for the deceased. He also assured necessary medical assistance to the injured. CM Rio acknowledged that the accident site, known as ‘pakala pahar,’ is prone to landslides and rockfalls.
Furthermore, CM Rio emphasized the need for immediate action to enhance safety infrastructure in such hazardous areas along the highway. He pledged to pursue the central government to prioritize the implementation of safety measures. CM Rio stressed that the safety of citizens should not be compromised and called upon the concerned authorities to ensure the required safety infrastructure is in place. He highlighted the importance of leveraging available technology and resources to safeguard the lives of the people.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks posed by natural calamities in regions prone to landslides and rockfalls. It underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to prevent such incidents and protect the lives of commuters and residents.
As the affected families mourn their losses and the injured receive medical care, the authorities must work diligently to fortify the infrastructure and implement robust safety measures in vulnerable locations. The safety and well-being of citizens should remain a top priority as the region continues to grapple with the challenges posed by natural hazards.
In the wake of this unfortunate event, it is crucial for authorities, residents, and commuters alike to remain vigilant, exercise caution, and work collaboratively to mitigate the risks associated with landslides and ensure the safety of all individuals traversing the highways of Nagaland.
Sources By Agencies
