As the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) session approaches on August 27, scrutiny over the state’s governance has intensified, fueled by criticisms from political parties, student organizations, and public voices.
The National People’s Party (NPP) Chizami has spotlighted the deteriorating Pfutsero to Zhavame road, a vital link between Nagaland and Manipur. The NPP’s press statement underscores that the road, crucial for connecting several villages, has been long neglected. “The condition of the road has never been in good shape and has been badly neglected,” the party stated, urging immediate government action. They noted that local youths had to crowd-fund repairs for a 10 km stretch in 2021 due to governmental inaction.
In a parallel critique, the Rising People’s Party (RPP) has accused the PDA government of prioritizing high-cost projects like the Chiethu airport and Nagaki city over essential infrastructure needs. They argue that while these projects demand enormous investments, fundamental urban infrastructure like roads has suffered. “Dimapur roads are now utterly unpliable,” the RPP stated, attributing this to poor drainage systems exacerbated by the monsoon. They urged the government to address the neglected urban infrastructure and table a White Paper on the Chiethu and Nagaki projects during the upcoming NLA session.
The Sangtam Students’ Union has also voiced concerns about Dimapur’s road conditions, emphasizing their impact on daily life and critical institutions such as schools and hospitals. “The government must utilize funds from indirect and direct taxes for proper road maintenance,” the Union stated, pointing out the broader implications of poor infrastructure on the city’s quality of life and economic health.
The road situation is similarly dire in other districts, including Mokokchung, Tuensang, Kiphire and more. Adding to the infrastructure woes, a massive landslide near Dzüdza Bridge in Kohima district has blocked National Highway-29, stranding approximately 100 trucks near the Chathe River Bridge in Chümoukedima district. The landslide, triggered by relentless rains, has rendered the highway impassable. Stranded truck drivers have expressed frustration as they wait for clearance. In response, the All Nagaland Taxi Association (ANTA) has adjusted taxi fares between Kohima and Dimapur to 500 rupees per passenger due to the longer diverted route.
Public opinion highlights ongoing issues with the National Highway from Dimapur to Kohima, which frequently suffers from landslides and road incidents, especially during the rainy season. Many are calling for the government to maintain an alternative route via Niuland to Zhadima, approximately 35 km, with proper blacktopping to ensure a reliable connection to the state capital.
“Why isn’t the Nagaland government maintaining the alternative route from Niuland to 10 Mile? This route is significantly shorter for reaching other districts as well. The public is suffering due to the poor condition of the roads. Given that the Niuland to 10 Mile route is well-known to be a viable option, why is the government neglecting its maintenance?” shared a concerned citizen.
As the NLA session nears, there is a clear call for the government to reassess its priorities. The pressing need for effective governance is underlined by the growing demand for improvements in infrastructure and basic services. Ensuring that roads, drainage systems, and essential services are properly maintained and developed is crucial for addressing the immediate needs of the people and nurturing long-term development.
