Imlisanen Jamir
Despite official notifications to the contrary, haphazard vehicle crossings at the ongoing four-lane stretch between Dimapur and Chümoukedima continue, putting at risk commuters and affecting traffic flow.
As a significant portion of the particular stretch is now open to traffic on both lanes, makeshift crossing across the lanes are visible along the entire stretch (they have been for quite a while).
A day before the New Year, the State Chief Secretary held a meeting with several line departments and made clear that such crossings should not be allowed. He directed the authorities to see to it that the practice is stopped.
As much as we complain about government ineptitude, there are times when we should look at ourselves. This particular stretch of the road has become a scene for frequent instances of vehicles refusing to use a designated crossing only a few meters ahead and opt instead to barge head on into incoming traffic to reach their destination across the road.
The Dimapur administration has already notified designated crossings along the stretch of the highway. They include: Zion Hospital Junction, Toluvi Junction / Hollohon Petrol Pump, Hollotoli School / Naharbari Junction, Aoyimti Junction / Darogapathar Village Gate, 3rd Mile / Nagarjan Junction, Airport Junction, Diphupar Village Gate, Central Jail / Agri-Expo, Green Park Junction, Sovima Village Gate, 7th Mile / Sukhovi Junction, Chümoukedima 2nd Gate and Chümoukedima 1st Gate / Police Complex.
To their credit, the Dimapur Traffic Police has manned a considerable stretch of the highway especially during peak hours to make sure that vehicles follow the latest regulation. However, there is only so much they can do, as drivers continually refuse to follow the rules leaving traffic personnel visibly frustrated.
Compounding the problem is the inaction on the removal of haphazardly placed crossings that litter the road stretch. This is despite the Chief Secretary directing that all temporary earth fillings, except for the designated crossings, be removed.
As long as these random crossings exist, drivers will be tempted to use them. Furthermore, there are frequent incidences of drivers misjudging these random crossings and getting their vehicles wedged into spaces between the lanes, especially during nights.
“We cannot have crossings as per the demand of the people. Only designated crossings should be used so that people get used to a certain system,” the Chief Secretary had stressed.
It seems though that people of Dimapur do not want to get used to it.
Comments can be sent to imlisanenjamir@gmail.com
