For every problem there is a solution. However, the traffic jam problem in Kohima the State Capital seemed to have no solution. It is not wise to blame the traffic police, PWD(R&B) deptt, District Administration etc as everyone has a share in creating problems for it such as land encroachment, violating traffic rules, early closing of shops and health centres, indiscipline, selfishness and list goes on.
We have to accept that there are practical problems to solve traffic jam as it is not an easy task. It needs lot of resources, public support etc. However, I just would like to appeal the concerned government departments to go a little bit beyond what they are doing with their best till date. As such, I would like to share some of my thoughts as listed below.
1 Strict Prohibition of vehicle parking (all type of vehicles) on the roadsides (24x7) both main town roads as well as colony roads – all equally important. (Traffic advise we read: “You own a car but not road”)
2 Shops, health clinics etc. to remain open till 8.00 pm so as to avoid rushes for shopping and health check up during day time.
3 Strict order for immediate disposal of dumped soils on the roadsides due to construction works both government and private.
4 Fixing responsibility on local bodies such as colony councils, GBs etc. for strict enforcement in prohibiting of parking vehicles on all stretch of the roadside both day and night in their respective jurisdiction.
5 Cash award worth INR 10.00 lakh for the best performing colony council so as to encourage competitive spirit in implementation of the order in their respective colony (Ward).
6 In case, any colony does not cooperate in implementing of orders, disqualify that particular colony council and notice be published in the Local Newspapers with order to elect new team of council members within shortest time.
7 Introduce online payment facilities for water bills, school fees, LPG booking, tickets booking for both private and govt vehicles etc, so as to avoid rushes on roads.
I have shared my humble views for traffic jam issue as which affect each and every one and the price people paid for it is very costly. Costly in the sense of consuming time, delay for hours or lost of life for those patient who needs immediate attention of doctors, consume extra fuel, more pollutions, anxiety etc.
If the problem has to be taken up seriously there is still some steps which can be taken by joint afford to reduce the traffic problem to some extent without having to rely on fund for development. Of course, master plan involves huge fund is required but which is not at the disposal of the state government and it will take time. Why let us not do something to ease the traffic jam which will definitely help everyone.
E. Stephen Rikha
eyosalr@gmail.com
