A major landslide has completely severed a section of the Shillong-Dawki highway, prompting authorities in Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills district to close the crucial route beyond Laitlyngkot village until further notice.
The Shillong-Dawki road serves as a vital corridor connecting Meghalaya's capital with Dawki on the India-Bangladesh border and is frequently used by tourists, local residents and commercial transport vehicles.
According to East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, the landslide occurred at Chainage 25+200 along the Shillong-Dawki highway, causing significant damage to the road and disrupting connectivity to Dawki and adjoining areas.
In response to the situation, the district administration has ordered the immediate closure of the affected stretch from Laitlyngkot village onwards to ensure public safety and prevent any untoward incidents.
The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has already begun restoration and repair work at the site. However, officials said the repairs are expected to take several days, and normal traffic movement is unlikely to resume immediately.
Authorities have advised tourists and local residents to avoid travelling on the Shillong-Dawki highway during this period. Alternative routes have been identified to facilitate movement between Shillong and Dawki.
Commuters have been asked to use either the Shillong–Sohra–Sohbar–Dawki route or the Shillong–Jowai–Amlarem–Dawki route until the damaged section is restored.
The district administration has also urged residents and travellers to closely monitor weather updates issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), as continuous rainfall in the region has increased the risk of additional landslides and road disruptions.
Officials warned that adverse weather conditions could further complicate restoration efforts and affect transportation across vulnerable stretches of hilly terrain.
Emergency assistance remains available through the emergency response number 112, and authorities have requested the public to cooperate with traffic restrictions and safety advisories until the highway is declared safe for travel.
The closure of the Shillong-Dawki highway is expected to impact tourism and transportation in the region, particularly during the peak monsoon season when thousands of visitors travel to Dawki and other popular destinations in Meghalaya.
