The raw power of nature can be both awe-inspiring and terrifying, reminding us of our vulnerability in the face of its might. From devastating earthquakes that shake the very foundations of the earth to rockslides that crush everything in their path, natural calamities leave a trail of destruction and despair.
No matter how strong the precautions are, nature will do the damage; all we can do is spectate. This unfortunate reality became evident when a Tata Harrier got crushed due to a rockslide on Kohima-Dimapur National Highway 29 near Nagaland’s Chumoukedima district on Tuesday evening.
A massive rock tumbled down the mountain, crushing two cars and causing damage to two additional cars, killing two and critically injuring three others. The accident happened near the Old Chumoukedima police check post around 5 pm. The location of the accident is known for rock falls.
A video of the scary accident was captured by the dashcam of a car standing behind the damaged vehicles in the traffic has been surfaced over the internet and has gone viral on the social media.
In the video, a huge rock can be seen rolling down the slope and hitting the cars stalled in traffic. The force of the impact was so intense that the vehicles were completely crumpled.
This was followed by another rock colliding with a third car, causing it to flip and collide with a nearby truck. According to PTI’s report, all the cars affected by the rockslide were traveling from Kohima.
Out of the two fatalities, one person lost his life on the spot, and the other succumbed to injuries while receiving medical treatment. Another person was reportedly trapped inside one of the cars, and rescue operations were underway to rescue the person.
Kevithuto Sophie, Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, said four vehicles were damaged due to the incident. “Two casualties and three seriously injured. Although, they have not been identified yet”, he told PTI.
Nagaland’s chief minister Neiphiu Rio shared his condolences for the deceased via Twitter. He also said that the spot where the accident happened is known as “pakala pahar,” and landslides and rockfalls are common in that region.
He ensured the government would take all the necessary measures to provide emergency services and medical aid required by the injured. The minister added that financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh will be given to the victims’ families.
It’s shocking and saddening at the same time; one can do nothing in these situations rather than watch the destruction caused by nature. The government of Nagaland has acted swiftly and took necessary measures to contain the situation.
Always be aware of the surroundings and make sure you’re in a safe place, even while stalling in a traffic jam or at parking. If possible, avoid driving in these dangerous weather conditions.
