Dimapur, October 31 (MExN): The Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) has expressed deep concern over a recent road accident near DDSC Stadium in Dimapur, reportedly caused by a large unattended pothole along the National Highway stretch under the Dimapur Division of the National Highway Department.
In a statement, the DUCCF said that despite repeated appeals from the public and various civil organisations, the concerned department has failed to address the deteriorating road conditions, which continue to pose a serious danger to commuters. It described the incident as “a grim reminder of the gross negligence and non-adherence to safety norms by the responsible authorities.”
With the festive season approaching, the Federation noted that heavy vehicular movement and public gatherings are expected, making it imperative for the department to act swiftly. “Immediate repair and maintenance works are absolutely urgent,” it stated. The DUCCF urged the National Highway Department, Dimapur Division, to take “swift and concrete action to repair and restore the affected portion of the road to prevent further accidents and loss of life.”
The Federation further cautioned that if the department fails to act within a reasonable timeframe, it will be “compelled to file an FIR against the concerned department and officials for dereliction of duty and public endangerment under relevant legal provisions.”
Reiterating that “public safety is non-negotiable,” the DUCCF stressed that accountability must be upheld in all public works. It asserted that the repairing of such potholes should be given immediate attention and that preventive maintenance should be prioritised to avoid further mishaps.
The statement also acknowledged the efforts of the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) councillor responsible for parking management “for looking into the development for the pedestrians.” The Federation, however, appealed for uniformity in parking charges, suggesting that the parking fee be fixed at Rs20 for two hours across all areas in Dimapur town, “instead of location bases.”
