Mokokchung: Post new traffic notification, SDPO clarifies key nuances with MT

Starting July 1, 2025, Mokokchung town will see the implementation of a series of new traffic regulations aimed at improving public safety, easing traffic congestion, and promoting systematic urban management. In light of the upcoming enforcement, Mokokchung Times followed up with SDPO Mokokchung for clarifications on several pressing issues raised by citizens.

Residents have long voiced concerns over individuals installing ‘No Parking’ signs in front of private properties and businesses. When asked if this is permissible, SDPO Mokokchung made it clear: “No, it is not permissible because it is actually illegal.”

However, enforcement remains a challenge. “We have manpower shortage. Otherwise, we would love to have a dedicated team to enforce this. We are currently looking into it,” he added, acknowledging the unchecked proliferation of such signs.

Confusion also arose over whether school and college buses fall under the restriction. Clarifying the matter, the SDPO explained that the notification had a phrasing issue. “The notification should have read ‘Inter-District buses’. Educational and institutional buses or let’s say intra-buses are exempted,” he said, assuring that local school transport will not be affected.

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Explaining the rationale behind exempting emergency vehicles, the SDPO pointed out that many drivers fail to yield. “Sometimes we see that people don’t make way for Fire and Emergency Services or ambulance and hence, it is an attempt to at least create an awareness among people,” he said.

Security forces, though not explicitly covered by special rules, will continue to be given priority. “We don’t have a choice because we don’t know in which situation they are in. For instance, if the IR Party or say the Assam Rifles is to travel from between inter-district to district, we cannot keep them waiting,” he explained. “We do not have a choice but to prioritize them.”

One change involves the restriction of Right of Way for vehicles ascending from the IMDH/MMC complex toward the Main Police Point, who must now await clearance from on-duty traffic personnel.

When asked whether there will be safety concerns, especially for new drivers, the SDPO said, “One must not drive if they are not confident. Right now, Right of Way is given to those coming from upside but we have been trying our best to do away with it because it is not too steep as well.”

“Mokokchung is also not the only place on the hills, therefore, listening to what the traffic personnel is saying must be encouraged,” he added, stressing the need for discipline on the road.

Addressing a critical miscommunication in the official notification, the SDPO clarified that the line allowing loading and unloading during restricted hours was a typographical error. “It should read as ‘shall not be’ permitted during restricted hours,” he said.

On regulating parking in the town, particularly for commercial taxis, the SDPO said the department is keen to act. “By next week we plan to work on the taxi regulation by tying up with the MMC,” he said, hinting at upcoming changes that may affect taxi drivers and operators across the town.

MT