Long-neglected Longchem cries for attention

Dimapur, June 18 (EMN): Reminding that Longchem town in Mokokchung district is one of the oldest circle headquarters in Nagaland, the Japukong Youth Organisation (JYO) has appealed to the authorities to give it due attention. A press release from the organisation on Tuesday stated that the “current treatment meted out to the area is far from good.” It pointed out that the road that connects Mangkolemba via Longchem town till Yajang (C) was as good as abandoned. “However, the presence of another economic strategic road that connects Longchem to Nakachari greatly benefits the people of the area. Unfortunately, even this road is in a dilapidated condition,” it stated. During monsoon, the town and most of the nearby villages are cut off for months, according to the press release. “This also results in inflation and high cost of living for the people. For example, the cost of transport from HQ Longchem town for distributing PDS rice has increased resulting in the beneficiaries paying almost double the actual price.” It appealed to the authorities to “put impetus in the repair and maintenance of the roads connecting Longchem, especially the Longchem-Nakachari road.” The JYO has also appealed to all the government employees under Longchem block to be in the place of their posting. It reminded that the JYO had earlier met Minister of High and Technical Education Temjen Imna Along as well as the extra assistant commissioner of Longchem and “seriously discussed” those matters.