The issuance of a work order for the long-neglected Rotary Junction–IOC road in Mokokchung is, without doubt, a welcome development. It marks a crucial first step in addressing years of civic neglect and public frustration. But in a state where work orders too often signal little more than bureaucratic paperwork rather than meaningful progress, we must ask what comes next.
The road in question is not just another cracked stretch of bitumen. It is a vital urban artery, used daily by thousands of residents, commercial vehicles, emergency services, and students. Its deteriorated condition has long symbolized the wider malaise of urban infrastructure in Mokokchung, plagued by delays, poor quality control, and a lack of transparency. That this work order comes after persistent pressure from the Ongpangkong Students’ Conference (OKM) only highlights the unfortunate reality that public pressure, not planning, remains the primary driver of governance in the state.
Yes, the road is finally on the books under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), with a sanctioned cost of Rs 2.42 crore. But even this comes with a telling caveat: the payment is “subject to availability of funds by the State Government of Nagaland.” This single clause lays bare the fragility of the promise. It means that even with a formal work order in hand, the actual progress remains uncertain and hostage to the state’s financial priorities or lack thereof.
Moreover, while the contract stipulates an eight-month completion window and a two-year defect liability period, these conditions are meaningless without real-time public oversight and enforceable accountability. How often have such clauses remained on paper while citizens continue to suffer broken roads and broken assurances?
As demanded by OKM, a public timeline of execution milestones must be released and also updated regularly. The identity and track record of the contractor must be scrutinized, and their progress monitored not just by officials but by an empowered local oversight committee that includes civil society groups like OKM. Crucially, any delays or substandard work must lead to penalties that are actually enforced, not merely threatened.
The State Government should prioritize timely fund disbursal for this project. Without guaranteed financial flow, even the most professionally managed construction will stall. Delayed payments not only compromise the quality of work but also feed the vicious cycle of mistrust between government, contractors, and the public.
Finally, this is a moment for political leadership, not just administrative procedure. Urban infrastructure improvement is not a seasonal task nor a favor to citizens; it is a governance imperative. Let Mokokchung be a test case for a new culture of public works in Nagaland: one where promises are kept, roads are repaired on time, and public voices are respected without delay.
The work order has been issued. Now, let the work and the watchdogging begin.