Neglected Walford and East Block roads in Dimapur get new lease of life

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• A view of the newly constructed Walford road in Dimapur on Monday.

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• DIMAPUR — After years of neglect and seasonal flooding, the Walford and East Block roads under Ward-4 in Dimapur—once resembling slum-like conditions—have finally been redeveloped, bringing relief to residents. The roads were formally inaugurated on Monday by Advisor for Tribal Affairs, H Tovihoto Ayemi.
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• In his address, Ayemi acknowledged the long-standing neglect of the Walford and East Block roads and expressed satisfaction that the long-pending issue was now addressed. He asserted that the development of these roads had been one of his priorities, as the area also serves ‘as the face of Dimapur.’
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• The two roads, measuring 2,100 and 2,300 metres respectively, were constructed under the Department of Tribal Affairs, funded through Article 275(1) of the Indian Constitution. Ayemi reiterated that good roads are a basic necessity, and the completion of this project is a major step toward improving infrastructure in the area.

• Advisor for Tribal Affairs H Tovihoto Ayemi inaugurates the Walford road in Dimapur on Monday.

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• Speaking on the evolving policies in road development, the legislator pointed out that multiple departments are involved in road construction—such as the National Highway Authority, PWD, Border Roads Organisation (under Project Sewak), and the Urban Development department.
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• However, with recent policy changes, urban road development responsibilities are gradually being transferred to the Urban Development department. He admitted that the transition has caused confusion and delays in project implementation and funding allocation.
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• "Development is a never-ending process, and while we can't meet every individual's expectations, I will always prioritise community development," Ayemi said.
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• On another issue, the advisor also touched upon the formation of the ‘5 Tribes Committee on Review of Reservation Policy’, which has given the state government a 30-day ultimatum to review a policy that has remained unchanged for over 50 years. Ayemi agreed that the reservation policy should be reviewed every 10 years and expressed hope that the matter is being ‘worked out.’
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• He also suggested a review of the Gaon Bura (GB) institution, which was introduced by the British in 1886 and continues to be in practice. Ayemi urged community elders and leaders to reflect on the relevance of the GBs and councils in the current context and who should administer.
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• Zulu Ozükum, advisor of the Central Colony Walford (CCW), expressed gratitude, noting that the area had begun witnessing development since 2018. However, he raised concerns about the drainage system, which often clogs during monsoons. He urged the Dimapur Municipal Council Sanitation Branch not only to collect garbage and fees but also to actively work on clearing blocked drains.

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