The longest bridge in India measuring 9.15 kms across Brahmaputra was recently inaugurated in Assam, but here in Nagaland one comes across evidences of the same old story of stalled development works. This bridge across Chathe River connecting Zukihe and neighboring villages had been left unfinished. As an alternative, a cable rope bamboo bridge serves as a lifeline. The bridge is about 50 metres and supported by just two wooden posts. There is no guarantee on the durability of the bridge and the commuters especially teachers teaching in the villages across the river, puts their life at grave risk every time they cross the bridge. Taxes are levied by the Zukihe Village Council from vehicles and pedestrians crossing the ‘swinging’ bridge, and the money goes into repairing the bridge. At stake is the good life and well-being of the people, so the larger question is … when will the concerned authority look into this serious matter?
