Nagaland: 3 truck unions call for urgent road repairs, maintenance

DIMAPUR — The Kiphire District Commercial Vehicle Union, Meluri District Truck Union and Phek District Truck Union, held a joint meeting at Meluri town on October 11, to address the grave concerns surrounding the deteriorating and perilous state of key road sections across the region.

The unions, representing drivers who transport essential commodities and construction materials, urged authorities to take immediate action, citing the immense risks and hardships faced by truckers due to frequent landslides, rock falls, and damaged roads, the three unions stated in a joint press release.

The meeting highlighted specific areas of concern, including the treacherous stretches between Chakhabama and Pfutsero, where landslides are a common occurrence.

The unions also pointed out that the road from Losami village to Lanye is fraught with dangerously poised rocks, creating a constant threat of rock falls. Besides, in the Meluri area, mudslides and rock falls pose significant dangers to commuters, and the road segment from Akhegwo to Kiphire has deteriorated to a critical state, urgently requiring maintenance.

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“These dangerous road conditions are not just an inconvenience; they are a matter of public safety and economic stability. Truckers are frequently stranded for days, and in some cases, for weeks, when heavy landslides block the roads.

“This not only puts their lives at risk but also disrupts the flow of essential goods to communities. When these truckers are stuck, it is the general public that suffers, as the delivery of food, medicine, and other critical supplies is delayed,” the union stated.

The unions implored the authorities to give the issue urgent attention, emphasising that drivers are not just transporters but partners in ensuring community well-being. Additionally, they appealed for prioritisation of road repair and maintenance, as well as deployment of standby machinery to quickly clear blockages.