There was a time, not very long ago, when traffic congestion was almost unheard of in Mokokchung. Today, traffic jams have become a daily ordeal, particularly along the town’s main roads. The number of vehicles has increased steadily, but road infrastructure has remained largely unchanged. Widening existing roads may not be immediately possible. What can change, however, is how people use them. This is where traffic etiquette becomes crucial.
Traffic discipline ensures compliance with rules. It is necessary and must be enforced. But discipline alone cannot address the everyday friction that leads to congestion on roads that are simply too narrow. Traffic etiquette, courtesy, patience, and awareness of others, plays an equally important role. When drivers stop in the middle of narrow roads, ignore right of way, overtake recklessly, or park without consideration, congestion builds quickly. These may not always be violations of law, but they reflect a lack of etiquette.
Given how limited the road space is, even small acts of consideration can go a long way. Allowing another vehicle to pass in a tight stretch, avoiding unnecessary honking, maintaining lane sense even in narrow roads, and not blocking intersections can ease traffic flow. These are simple practices, but their absence is often what turns a manageable situation into a bottleneck.
Responsibility does not lie with authorities alone. While traffic management, regulation, and enforcement are expected from the concerned departments, road users must recognize their role. Civil society and mass-based organizations can help build awareness and promote a culture of responsible driving. Local vehicle bodies, including taxi unions and commercial operators, can guide their members and set standards for conduct on the road.
Two-wheeler users must also be part of this effort. They share the same roads and therefore carry the same responsibility. Weaving through traffic, ignoring basic norms, overtaking impatiently, or squeezing through narrow gaps only adds to the problem.
Road expansion may take time, or may not happen at all. For now, better traffic etiquette on existing roads offers the most realistic relief. But the question is whether the town is willing to adopt that change.
If consistent traffic etiquette becomes a shared value, Mokokchung can indeed set an example.
