Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, SEP 20 (NPN): Neglected and poorly maintained roadside drains and footpaths across several parts of Dimapur are posing a safety hazard to pedestrians, with reported incidents of people falling through open and damaged sections.
The problem has been noticed along stretches including Nyamo Lotha road, Tajen Ao road, Kalibari, Notun Bosti and around Clock Tower area, Battacharali, among other areas.
In several locations, drain covers and concrete slabs have broken, shifted or gone missing, leaving open gaps along pedestrian pathways.
There have also been reported incidents of pedestrians falling into the open sections, raising concerns over possible serious injuries, particularly among elderly people and those walking during early morning or evening hours.
Speaking to Nagaland Post, a passerby said the condition of the pathways had made them unsafe for pedestrians.
“It is not safe to walk at the side of the road. The pavement cannot be used because of these reasons,” the passerby said.
In some stretches, weeds and overgrown vegetation have covered portions of the drains, making some openings difficult to see. Clogged drainage channels, accumulated dirt and stagnant water have further worsened the condition.
The situation is particularly concerning where pedestrians are forced to abandon the footpath and walk closer to the main road due to damaged or obstructed pathways, exposing them to moving traffic.
Residents and regular walkers have urged the concerned authorities to undertake immediate cleaning and desilting of drains, remove overgrown weeds, replace broken slabs and properly cover all open sections.
They also called for regular inspection and maintenance of drainage and pedestrian infrastructure, particularly along busy roads and areas frequently used by pedestrians.
Residents said the issue had become a public safety concern, given the reported falls and increasing difficulty in using the footpaths, and urged the authorities to take prompt action before further accidents occur.