The Langpangkong range in Mokokchung district is setting a commendable example in road infrastructure development by ensuring high-quality, tax-free construction on National Highway No. 2. The Langpangkong Range Union, along with its Road Coordination and Monitoring Committee, is overseeing the ongoing road widening project, ensuring community-driven oversight and commitment to excellence.
In a show of unity and dedication, the Langpangkong Tzukong Mungdang (Langpangkong Range Authority)on Wednesday has reiterated its long-standing resolution to maintain “tax-free and quality construction work.” The LTM have ensured that no individual or group disrupts the construction process, which aims to alleviate the burden on daily commuters and expedite project completion.
The roots of this commitment trace back to 1933, when the Langpangkong region decided to construct a motorable road to ease the physical burden of carrying essential salt from the Assam valley to the hills. This necessity led to the formation of the Langpangkong Union under the theme “Road & Unity.” Every village in the region voluntarily participated in the road construction using traditional tools such as daos, digging bars, spades, and wooden shovels. This community-driven effort led to the government taking over the road, which is now part of National Highway No. 2.
Notably, landowners in the Langpangkong range have never accepted land compensation from the Government of India and have prohibited any form of tax collection from contractors by groups or organizations. The Road Coordination and Monitoring Committee, formed by the Langpangkong Range Union, voluntarily oversees the construction work, ensuring it meets the approved specifications.
The Langpangkong Range Union has called on contractors to minimize inconvenience to daily commuters on NH 2 by avoiding insensitive and random construction activities and completing the work on time. The Langpangkong Tzükong Mungdang (LTM) further stressed that no individual or group would be allowed to disrupt the current road construction within the Langpangkong jurisdiction.