The condition of the Airfield Colony main route is seen in this undated photo shared by residents.
Morung Express News
Wokha | July 27
Residents of Airfield Colony in Wokha have raised serious concerns over a deteriorated stretch of road that has remained in poor condition for years, urging the concerned authorities to take urgent action.
The road, which forms part of the Wokha–Bokajan route, is frequently used by students, teachers, and daily commuters.
However, during rainy season, the stretch gets flooded due to poor drainage, with water rising to knee level and making passage difficult for pedestrians and vehicles.
Colony Chairman, Nzio Mozhui, said the colony council, along with Ward 3 Councillor W Myingthungo Kikon, had tried to improve the condition by filling the damaged portion with 12 truckloads of boulders.
However, the effort has had little effect due to the absence of drainage.
“The water has nowhere to go. If we let it flow downhill, the houses below the road will be flooded. On the other side, we can’t dig a drain because it may trigger landslides,” Mozhui maintained.
Despite approaching the concerned department and district administration, no effective action has been taken so far, he added.
Students who walk to school are among the worst affected. Many are forced to remove their shoes and wade through the water, while some are carried by their parents.
“During heavy rains, the road is completely covered in water. When vehicles pass, they splash water on us. Sometimes, we have to go back home in dirty clothes,” said one student.
Parents and teachers also expressed concern over the daily challenges faced by children. “It takes so much effort to get them across. Even if they reach school, their clothes are wet and muddy,” said a teacher.
Vehicle owners using the road stated that their vehicles often get soiled, and navigating through the waterlogged area is risky, as the road becomes invisible under the water. They added that while some try to assist students with lifts, the situation continues to worsen.
Councillor Kikon stated that the situation has worsened over the years, with new houses built along the stretch blocking natural water channels.
“Even though we’ve been trying to maintain the road, without proper drainage, waterlogging will keep happening,” he said.
He also appealed to the authorities to take up the matter without further delay and find a solution that ensures public safety and convenience.
Another resident and local leader pointed out that while the community has done its part, the issue cannot be solved without government support.
“We’ve done all we can. Now, it’s time for the administration to step in. If there are problems related to land or technical matters, the concerned department should work them out. What matters most is the safety and welfare of the public, especially the students,” he added.
Until a lasting solution is implemented, the road will continue to affect daily life, especially during the monsoon, residents stressed.
