The Ongpangkong Kaketshir Mungdang (OKM) has demonstrated commendable dedication to the well-being of the community through their efforts in repairing the IOC-Rotary Junction road in Mokokchung. Their voluntary work shows a profound commitment to public service and a genuine concern for the welfare of the citizens. The OKM’s actions serve as an inspiring example of what can be achieved when a community comes together for the common good.
However, the necessity of such actions by a student organization raises troubling questions about the state of governance and public infrastructure management. The fact that students and volunteers are compelled to take on the responsibility of repairing essential public roads reflects a significant failure on the part of the government. Road maintenance, especially like the ones in question, should be a top priority for any government, as it directly impacts the safety, economic vitality, and quality of life of its citizens.
The condition of the roads in Mokokchung is not just an inconvenience; the poorly maintained roads are symbol of a larger systemic issue. The responsibility for ensuring that roads are safe and well-maintained lies squarely with the government. When this duty is neglected, it forces citizens to step in and fill the void, as we have seen with the OKM.
It is a situation that should not be tolerated. While the OKM’s efforts are laudable, they should not be necessary in a well-functioning society. The burden of maintaining public infrastructure should not fall on the shoulders of students or volunteers. These are tasks that the government is mandated to perform.
The situation in Mokokchung should serve as a wake-up call to the government. The proactive stance taken by the OKM is a clear indicator of the frustration and desperation felt by the community over the state of our roads. The government must step up and fulfill its responsibilities, ensuring that such vital tasks are not left to the goodwill of volunteer organizations.
While we must wholeheartedly appreciate and support the OKM for their exemplary work, it is crucial to recognize that their involvement in road maintenance highlights a deep-seated issue of governance. The government must prioritize the maintenance of essential infrastructure, ensuring that no community is forced to take on tasks that are fundamentally a public service obligation. Only then can we move towards a society where civic engagement complements, rather than compensates for, effective governance.