Mangkolemba, March 31 (MExN): The Civil Societies Organization of the Mangkolemba subdivision (CSOs) has extended “unrestrained support” to the demand made by the Ao Senden to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, with regard to the proposed realignment and construction of the Mariani-Mokokchung Road (NH-702D).
The Mangkolemba CSOs in a press statement issued by its president, I Tia Jamir highlighted that the area has myriad problems, but one of the most urgent needs is to have good, well maintained and well connected road connectivity. In such a circumstance, it would only be apt and logical that such a road of national importance and interconnectivity transits through this subdivision,” the CSOs stated.
It said “in itself, would be paramount in giving a sense of justice and belongingness to this deprived subdivision and its people. It would not only be economically sustainable, efficient and beneficial to the masses but also it would give a boost to the tourism industry in the area, given the fact that the subdivision is home to a variety of species of flora and fauna as well as rich in Naga heritage and places of historical importance.”
It mentioned that according to a RTI reply from the PWD NH, there are five alternative routes under consideration for the realignment. However, as compared to the rest of the other alternatives, the fourth option, i.e. “(IV). Realignment from Watiyim on chainage 66.0 Km to Longjenkong (New Camp) on 30.0 Km via Mangkolemba” should be given preference, for a variety of reasons, that, this realignment is not only the shortest road (reduced from present 36.00 Km to approx 25.00 Km) but also it would have proper gradient and enough width of the road, which again adds to the economic feasibility of travelling distance and time.
Likewise, the Ao Senden’s expressed opinion and position stand justified because this realignment would be beneficial not only for the people of this subdivision but also for the rest of the districts connected by the NH-702D, it stated.
The organization as well has written a representation to the state's Chief Secretary, J Alam IAS and the Engineer-in-Chief (PWD-NH) and copies of the same have been forwarded to various stakeholders, including the two legislators from the subdivision. On March 28, 2022, some representatives of the CSO, lead by the President , I Tia Jamir went and submitted a representation regarding the same to the Chief Secretary, GoN, the Engineer-in-Chief PWD, GoN, and the Chief Engineer NH, in Kohima, it informed.
Therefore, the organisation, on behalf of the people has urged the concerned authority to take into consideration their appeal and representation, “by giving preference to the option IV of NH702D realignment and by obtaining the required NOCs.”
Mangkolemba is a semi-urban administrative subdivision under the Mokokchung district of the State of Nagaland, 60+ kms aloof from the district HQs and bordering Mariani (Jorhat) Assam. It is the administrative HQs of three ranges (out of six in Mokokchung district), namely, Jangpetkong, Japukong, and Tsurangkong, covering more than 50 villages and three other administrative blocks, viz. Alongkima EAC HQs, Longchem EAC HQs and Merangmen Border Magistrate.
