A fresh landslide has once again struck the vital National Highway-37 (NH-37), severely disrupting road connectivity between Imphal and Noney district. The incident occurred in the early hours today amid continuous rainfall over the region, raising fresh concerns about the reliability of the route during the monsoon season.
Location and Impact
The landslide reportedly occurred between Khongsang and Tupul along the mountainous stretch of NH-37 — a lifeline that connects Manipur’s capital Imphal to the Barak Valley region of Assam via Noney and Tamenglong. Debris and boulders have completely blocked the road, halting the movement of all types of vehicles, including those carrying essential goods and relief supplies.
Officials from the Public Works Department (PWD), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), and district administration have reached the site to begin clearance operations. However, heavy rainfall and risk of further slope failure are impeding immediate restoration.
Table: Key Details of the Incident
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Landslide | July 12, 2025 |
| Location | Between Khongsang and Tupul, NH-37 |
| Affected Route | Imphal–Noney–Jiribam stretch |
| Cause | Heavy monsoon rainfall |
| Current Status | Road completely blocked |
| Response Units | PWD, BRO, Noney District Officials |
Repeated Disruptions Raise Concerns
This is the second major landslide reported in the same sector within a fortnight, once again highlighting the fragile topography and lack of permanent slope protection measures in place. Local residents and transporters have voiced their frustration, demanding immediate intervention and a long-term solution.
A truck driver stranded near Khongsang told Manipur Bulletin, “We are stuck here for over 6 hours now. There is no shelter, no food supply. Authorities should have predicted this after the last landslide.”
Authorities Respond
District officials have urged people to avoid travel on NH-37 until further notice and to use alternative routes, though options remain limited due to similar vulnerabilities on NH-2 (Imphal–Kohima route).
Efforts are underway to clear the debris using earth movers and JCBs, though continuous rainfall and falling rocks are delaying progress.
Broader Implications
NH-37 is a critical economic and strategic link for Manipur, and its repeated closure due to landslides poses significant logistical and humanitarian challenges, especially in times of unrest and ongoing displacement in hill-valley regions.
With more rainfall forecast in the coming days, residents and traders are bracing for continued uncertainty.