Taxi union steers change, fix bumpy ride to Wokha district hospital

WOKHA — The road leading to Dr. Motsüo Memorial District Hospital in Wokha—also serving as a vital link to the District Sub-Jail, DIET, Bailey Baptist College, and several adjoining villages—has remained in a state of disrepair for years, forcing commuters to depend on longer and more difficult alternate routes.

The road condition worsened on February 21 when a flash flood washed away a culvert, cutting off direct access. To restore connectivity, members of the WhatsApp group Lotha News & Update raised funds through crowdfunding and constructed a temporary cattle trap-style iron bridge on July 21.

Despite the intervention, the road continued to deteriorate, with large potholes making it nearly unmotorable. On August 22, the Taxi Union operating between the Local Daily Market and the District Hospital organised a social work initiative, filling potholes with boulders and earth. The effort, supported by well-wishers and concerned individuals, was led by the union.

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Taxi Union President Tumchobemo Kikon told Eastern Mirror that members have been pooling their limited resources every year to maintain the road. “We do this while trying to earn enough through daily wages to support our families. It’s disheartening that such a crucial stretch continues to be overlooked,” he said.

According to sources from the contractor, the road was sanctioned for repair by the Urban Development department in June. However, persistent rainfall has delayed the commencement of work, which is expected to begin once weather conditions improve.