Mokokchung’s road infrastructure is in dire need of attention, as pointed out recently by Advisor for Water Resources, Tongpang Ozukum, that Mokokchung’s roads have regressed to a condition comparable to 30-35 years ago.
This is a stark acknowledgment of the pressing need for improved road infrastructure in the town. Roads are not just pathways or a means of transportation; they are the veins through which economic activity, social interaction, and essential services flow. Without proper roads, communities face isolation, economic stagnation, and delayed access to healthcare and education. It even affects our social interactions.
This is a pressing issue that demands immediate action. Many roads have deteriorated within a short span, reflecting a broader issue of inadequate maintenance and oversight. The worsening conditions over the last five years suggest that more must be done beyond initial construction—consistent maintenance and long-term planning are crucial to sustaining road quality.
The people of Mokokchung have a right to better roads. But how can this be achieved? The solution lies in collective action. Citizens should hold elected representatives accountable through petitions, public meetings, and consistent communication. Pressure must be sustained so that the government prioritizes road infrastructure as a matter of urgency.
But public accountability does not stop with citizens. Here at the newspaper, we call on those within the government who have firsthand knowledge of the state of roads, budget allocations, or planning deficiencies to come forward and share their insights. Your input could be critical in uncovering the root causes of why roads have deteriorated so quickly and how future projects can be better managed. We assure anonymity to anyone willing to provide this information. Sharing your knowledge can drive change and help ensure that road improvement efforts are transparent and effective.
For Mokokchung to thrive, it needs reliable infrastructure that connects its people and supports its growth. Roads are at the heart of this. Let us all work together—citizens and government alike—to make sure that this issue receives the urgent attention it deserves.