Landslide is a major disaster which affects the people of Nagaland, a hilly state with every monsoon witnessing incessant rainfall. Sechu-Zubza, a highland habitation area under Kohima district of Nagaland with National Highway 29 passing through the heart, the area is a hub of rapid developmental activities. Currently, the area is witnessing a road extension project under central scheme. The project has been constantly hampered by the occurrence of frequent landslides and mud sinking; a very common event in the area, which not only poses a threat to the commuters but to the inhabitants as well. However, the major cause of the calamity in the area can be identified as an anthropogenic activity; the aspiration for broader development and better roads. The focus of the study is on the negative outcomes of such human activities which is clearly seen from the loss incurred in physical, social and economic aspects of the affected families. The paper attempts to give a paradigm shift in understanding of natural calamities like landslides as not entirely the cause of natural disasters but also an ill managed and ill planned human activities. The study incorporates data obtained through primary and secondary sources, including personal interviews with affected families and various organisations. The study will pave way for the students of social anthropology in understanding the destructive capabilities of human nature and actions. The study will also enable the decision makers to prepare for future developmental strategies.
