The Ongpangkong Students’ Conference (OKM) and the Urban Development Department of Mokokchung have agreed to collaborate on temporary repairs to a deteriorating stretch of road in Mokokchung Town, from Rotary Club Junction to IOC, following a two-day meeting with Deputy Commissioner Thsuvise Phoji.

OKM leaders with the Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, Thsuvise Phoji (center)

The stretch of the road, deemed crucial for the local business community and  a key traffic route in Mokokchung town, has been in poor condition for some time.

The meeting, held on August 30 and 31 to address the pressing issue of road deterioration in Mokokchung Town, resulted in a resolution to seek local support, including labor, boulders, and donations, for the temporary repairs. The OKM emphasized the road’s importance as it connects key areas in the town, serving both the business community and several schools in the vicinity apart from the public.

In May 2024, five ward authorities of Mokokchung Town submitted a plea to the Director of the Urban Development Department of Nagaland in Kohima, requesting a special sanction for repairs. Despite being placed on a ‘priority list,’ the road has yet to receive approval for maintenance from higher authorities.

A representative from OKM stated, “This road is not just a route; it’s the lifeline of our community. We need swift action to prevent further inconvenience. Also, it is not just this particular road but the entire road network in our municipality that needs urgent repair.”

According to the OKM, they have agreed to collaborate for the temporary repair of this particular stretch as it is a “market hub” with many schools nearby and therefore, becomes ‘critical’ to ensure that the “pathetic road” is at least temporarily repaired.

The dilapidated condition of the road between Rotary Junction and IOC in Mokokchung town

As of August 2024, the approval for the road maintenance remains uncertain, raising concerns among residents and local authorities about the delay’s impact on daily life.

With the monsoon season already underway, the urgency for road repairs is becoming increasingly apparent while residents await a decision from higher authorities.

The OKM assured that they would ensure all discussions made during the meeting are followed through to the end.

MT

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