SAPO conducts road repair works of deplorable NH-2

Concerned over the safety of commuters on National Highway-2 from Phesama to Khuzama, Southern Angami Public Organisation (SAPO) conducted repair works of the deplorable road on Wednesday. Informing media persons, SAPO president Kevipodi Sophie said the collective decision to repair the road was initiated as daily commuters were facing untold hardships.
He alleged that the inaction of National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) that was supposed to carry out the construction of the two-lane road had led to it deteriorating on the stretch. He said NHIDCL had given the contract to Fortune Group, but the delay in construction had worsened the road condition, almost rendering it impossible for vehicle to ply now.
He disclosed that the repair work was carried out with free contribution from villages, individuals and well wishers. He mentioned that although the full repair work could not be carried out due to limited resources, majority of the work was done and the outcome was satisfactory.
Talking to media persons, Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) president Metekhrielie Mejura said locals living along the stretch witnessed numerous accidents, besides other health complications resulting from bad road conditions.
He said that since there was no sign of any progress on the road construction despite the repeated reminders, the people took up the initiative to repair the road for the second time now. Mejura explained that SAYO had taken up the initiative as part of its social work and show concern and safety for all commuters, including interstate travellers. “With such a poor condition, it is a shame to call this road a National Highway. We once again urge upon the competent authority and construction agencies to immediately take up and execute the works as per the assignment,” he appealed.
He warned that if the works were not carried out at the earliest, SAYO would be compelled to bar entry/exit of heavy vehicles, including trucks ferrying essential items, till the road was constructed as per specifications.
SAYO president further cautioned that in the event of any untoward incident caused by the deplorable road condition, the construction agencies would be held responsible.
Earlier in July this year, SAYO had taken up minor repair work along the stretch after monsoon rains.
The road is the major lifeline connecting Manipur to rest of the country and also is the primary linkage to 13 Southern Angami villages.
The road also leads to the famed Kisama heritage village and the globally renowned Dzükou Valley.
With no work being carried out over an extended period of time, the condition of NH-2 has deteriorated with the monsoon rains having washed away most of the blacktop.
There have been sporadic road accidents, while heavy traffic jam is also witnessed regularly since the road in some areas is too small for even two vehicles to cross each other.
Thousands of trucks laden with essential supplies ply on this road to reach Manipur.