- Mingyashin Shaiza
EKHON | UKHRUL: A team of executives from Katho Katamnao Long (KKL) visited the landslide-hit area of Ramva Village, along NH 202, on Thursday after widespread concerns from the local community. The KKL delegation was led by its president, Mashungmi Zingkhai, who highlighted the urgent need for solutions to the worsening situation.
In a conversation with the Ramva Highway Committee’s convener, Zingkhai was informed that the committee had previously met with the General Manager of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to address the increasing risk of landslides. The villagers expressed frustration with the deteriorating conditions, questioning who would be responsible for providing relief and compensation for the homes and lands affected by the landslides.
Several homes have sustained significant damage due to the landslides, worsened following heavy monsoon rains. While compensation was previously distributed to landowners for road-cutting operations, the landslide has severely impacted areas beyond the compensated zones, leaving homeowners in a precarious situation. The villagers now seek clarity on whether additional compensation or relief measures will be provided.
The NHIDCL had assigned Varaha Pvt. Ltd. to clear the landslide debris to ensure road access and public convenience. However, residents refused to allow the clearance, fearing it would lead to further landslides. They demanded that retaining or bridge walls be constructed immediately after debris removal to stabilize the affected areas.
During the site inspection, KKL executives, members of the Ramva Highway Committee, Varaha Pvt. Ltd. representatives, consultants, and NHIDCL’s Ukhrul work in charge found that proceeding with the clearance now could worsen the situation. Given the heavy rainfall, all parties agreed it would be safer to delay the clearance until the monsoon season ends. They emphasized that once the rains subside, the construction of retaining walls should be a top priority to protect the affected homes.
The inspection revealed several homes in Ramva Village are on the verge of collapse, with many others developing cracks. KKL plans for an emergency meeting within the next few days involving the Deputy Commissioner, NHIDCL, Varaha Pvt. Ltd., the Ukhrul MLA, and Ramva village leaders to devise an immediate plan for addressing the situation. The focus will be on stabilizing the affected homes and clarifying the responsibilities for providing compensation and relief.
In addition to Ramva Village, similar conditions have been reported in Shokvao and TM Kasom, where houses have also sustained damage due to landslides. Affected homeowners are urging authorities to take swift action before the situation worsens.
KKL has confirmed that NHIDCL has instructed Varaha Pvt. Ltd. to prioritize the construction of retaining or bridge walls for all affected homes in Ramva once the monsoon season ends. The organization hopes this will relieve the distressed residents and prevent further damage in the coming months.
