DIMAPUR — The Sangtam Students’ Union Dimapur (SSUD) has drawn the attention of the concerned authorities to the deplorable condition of roads in and around Dimapur.
In a press release, the union reminded that the most basic things a government or the administration need to provide the citizens are good roads, clean water, electricity, education, quality health care, etc.
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It however said that the lackadaisical attitude of the government towards the condition of the roads has failed to gain the confidence of the people.
The SSUD maintained that every citizen of Dimapur, particularly the students who make up a large portion of people who travel by road on daily basis, is entitled to travel smoothly in good roads in any season and weather.
“In dealing with daily personal and work related stress, the experience of driving and travelling in a rough, uneven, badly rutted road makes the day worst for anyone and this has indirect effects on people’s mental health, leading to more complication in their social and professional lives,” the union said.
It went on to state that many of the roads lead to or passes through educational institutions, hospitals and churches, thereby making it essential to maintain good quality roads as these institutions and places are a part of the daily activities of the citizens.
“The union is of the opinion that the government already collects indirect taxes through fuels, while purchasing cars and parts and direct tax by the local administration, such as parking fees. Thus the portion of funds required to repair and maintain the roads as well as the drainages, footpaths must be utilised with all seriousness,” it said.
Additionally, the union pointed out that there are instances in rural parts of the country where good roads and connectivity lead to increased enrollment in schools.
“An analysis conducted on Oct 14th, 2022 by IIT Roorkee and the union government’s CSIR-Central Road Research Institute, New Delhi showed that, ‘if maintained properly, a network of city roads could save 0.128 million litres of fuel per 1000 vehicle- km over the next 15 years’”, the release quoted.
“Considering the amount of advantages of having a good roads in our daily lives and as well as our economy, the union would like to appeal the concerned district authorities and the state government to understand the seriousness of the situation, that the need of the hour is good roads for a clean, safe and progressive Dimapur,” the union added.