Shillong, June 23: Just days after receiving clearance for operation, the Sonapur tunnel in Meghalaya has been rendered nonfunctional once again due to a landslide, according to reports emerging on Friday.
The Sonapur tunnel serves as a vital connection between Silchar and Guwahati, as well as between Assam and several neighboring states including Mizoram, Manipur, and Tripura. However, following the recent landslide, the tunnel has been blocked, disrupting vehicular movement and leaving many individuals stranded.
The landslide was a direct consequence of heavy rainfall in the region over the past few days. Numerous vehicles are currently unable to proceed due to the landslide, causing considerable inconvenience for travelers.
Previously, the Sonapur Tunnel, located along National Highway 6 that connects Silchar with Shillong, had been closed for an extended period due to persistent landslides triggered by incessant rainfall. However, on June 20, authorities successfully cleared the tunnel for commuters, temporarily restoring normal traffic flow.
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Continuous landslides in the vicinity of the tunnel had led to its closure for several days, resulting in numerous vehicles being stranded on the highway. Through relentless efforts by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and the Meghalaya administration, traffic movement was eventually resumed on Tuesday.
The renewed blockage of the Sonapur Tunnel has severed communication links with various northeastern states, including Assam, Mizoram, and Manipur. The affected regions are now grappling with the challenges posed by disrupted transportation and limited access.
Authorities are working diligently to assess the situation, clear the debris, and restore safe passage through the Sonapur Tunnel. Road maintenance crews and emergency response teams are actively engaged in efforts to reopen the tunnel and alleviate the inconvenience faced by stranded travelers.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of infrastructure in hilly regions prone to landslides during periods of heavy rainfall. It serves as a reminder of the need for continuous monitoring, proactive measures, and effective disaster management strategies to mitigate the impact of natural calamities on vital transportation routes.
Travelers and commuters are advised to stay updated on the situation, follow official instructions, and consider alternative routes if necessary until the Sonapur Tunnel is fully operational once again.
