Kumrimong H Yimchunger
A concerned citizen
I wish to draw the attention of the concerned authorities and the public to the alarming safety risks faced by students and pedestrians near the Razhu Point Traffic Junction in Kohima.
Despite the presence of traffic personnel at this busy intersection, many students continue to encounter difficulties while attempting to cross the road, particularly during school opening and closing hours. It has been observed that numerous motorists, including drivers of cars, motorcycles, buses, and other vehicles, often fail to slow down or yield to pedestrians. As a result, students are frequently left waiting for extended periods or compelled to cross the road under unsafe conditions.
Equally concerning is the apparent lack of adequate attention given to pedestrian movement by traffic personnel at certain times. While managing vehicular flow is important, the safety of students and other pedestrians must remain a priority, especially during peak school hours when large numbers of children are on the roads.
Parents, teachers, and residents have expressed growing concern that the current situation could lead to serious accidents if timely intervention is not undertaken. Ensuring the safety of schoolchildren should be a collective responsibility shared by motorists, traffic authorities, and the community at large.
In this regard, I earnestly appeal to the Traffic Department and the municipal authorities to strengthen traffic management around school zones and major junctions. Measures such as clearly marked pedestrian crossings, warning signage, speed-control mechanisms, and active assistance from traffic personnel during peak hours can significantly improve road safety.
At the same time, motorists must be reminded of their responsibility to respect pedestrian right-of-way and exercise caution when approaching areas frequented by students.
I sincerely hope that the concerned authorities will take swift and effective action to address these concerns and ensure safer roads for students, pedestrians, and all citizens of Kohima.