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Dimapur, June 4 (EMN): Expressing concern over the pathetic condition of the National Highway 702D (Mariani-Mokokchung road) which is posing serious threat to trucks and also causing inconvenience to travellers, the Mokokchung Town Lanur Telongjem (MTLT) has urged the PWD (National Highway) department to give priority in repairing the road at the earliest.
The NH-702D is the economic lifeline not only for the people of Mokokchung district but also for the neighbouring districts of Tuensang and Zunheboto.
In a press release, the MTLT stated that the stretch of road near Chungtia village, popularly known as ‘June linen,’ (a landslide area that usually occurs during the month of June every year) is also posing hardship to the trucks, especially during this Covid-19 pandemic in the state.
Responding to the concern expressed from different quarters, the MTLT said its officials conducted spot inspection along the highway and interacted with the department supervisors engaged in earth cutting works in the ‘June Linen’ area.
The organisation appreciated the officials and labourers engaged in the road construction works who are tirelessly working to make the road safe for vehicles ferrying essential commodities to the different districts.
The MTLT was also overwhelmed to learn that the landowners of Chungtia and Aliba villages are extending support and co-operation to the department towards the construction and maintenance of the said road.
"This stretch of road which is a sinking area has been causing inconvenience to the people for the past two-three decades. Even this year, before the onset of the monsoon season, the road had sunk and it was rendered not fit for travelling from time to time," it stated.
Stating that trucks ferrying essential commodities to different districts are one of the most important frontline warriors in the fight against the Covid-19, the MTLT expressed concern about the safety of the truck drivers and co-drivers who have to manoeuvre through the treacherous road.
"The MTLT appreciates the hardships that the state government or the concern department might be facing in times such as this; however, there can be no excuse for not carrying out development works especially on an important economic route like the National Highway 702D," it stated.
The MTLT further urged the government to formulate some long-term strategy such as making a road diversion or constructing some concrete retaining walls, so that it does not pose anymore threat and inconveniences in the future.