Delegation raises Wokha–Bokajan road, district infrastructure and elephant conflict with Centre
A delegation from Wokha district has sought National Highway status for the Wokha–Merapani road up to Golaghat, besides seeking upgradation of the Wokha–Bokajan road and a special package for areas affected by human-elephant conflict.
The demands were raised when Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of Home and Border Affairs Yanthungo Patton, accompanied by 39 Sanis MLA and Agriculture Advisor Mhathung Yanthan, 38 Wokha MLA Y. Mhonbemo Humtsoe and 40 Bhandari MLA Achumbemo Kikon, met Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh.
The delegation also raised infrastructure requirements at Wokha district headquarters, including a District Office Complex, Multipurpose Market Complex, stadium and approach roads.
Road conditions affected by erosion and landslides were also highlighted, with the delegation pointing to their impact on movement and economic activity.
Human-elephant conflict in Wokha district was another issue raised during the meeting. The delegation highlighted crop destruction, property damage and concerns over the safety and livelihoods of affected communities and sought a special package for the affected areas.
Singh said the issues raised would be considered in the broader effort to strengthen connectivity and infrastructure in the North-East. On human-elephant conflict, he said an approach was needed that protected local livelihoods while conserving wildlife, with coordination among the agencies concerned.
Singh said connectivity remained central to the development of the North-East, citing expansion of roads, railways, airports, waterways and digital infrastructure. He said the number of operational airports in the region had increased from nine in 2014 to 17 in 2026, while the number of National Waterways had increased from one in 2014 to 20 in 2024.
