The Mangkolemba Sub-Division Civil Society Organisation of Mokokchung district has on written to Nagaland Chief Minister in support of Ao Senden’s endorsement of the realignment of Mariani-Mokokchung Road (NH702D) as per Option-IV (Watiyim-Longjemdang-Mangkolemba-Khar-Longjongkong) Survey Report recommended by PWD (NH) to the State Government.

In the letter dated 7th November 2023, the Mangkolemba Sub-Division CSO stated that 14 village councils and Hoho from the three Ao Ranges – Jangpetkong, Japukong and Tzurangkong “unanimously decided to render unrestrained support to the open letter endorsed by Ao Senden to the Chief Minister of Nagaland on 21st March 2022” as it was a better option compared to the existing route of Mariani-Changki-Mokokchung.

The 14 villages include Dibuia, Alongkima, Longjemdang, Alongtaki, Watiyim, Chungtiayimsen, Lakhuni, Changdang, Khar, Mongchen, Waromung, Japu, Longpayimsen, Lizo.

The CSO further hoped for CM’s intervention on the construction of the proposed road.

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The Ao Senden had in its open letter to Nagaland CM on this matter dated 21 March 2023, stated that the proposed realignment of the Mariani-Mokokchung Road (NH702D) was a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” for the people of the region, the highway being the lifeline of at least five districts of Nagaland, including Mokokchung, Tuensang, Zunheboto, Noklak and parts of Wokha and Shamator districts.

The Senden declared that of the five options recommended for the realignment, it agrees most with Option-IV (Watiyim-Longjemdang-Mangkolemba-Khar-Longjongkong) pointing out that this option will reduce the existing 85 kms by at least 10 kms. It also mentioned that the existing highway cannot be widened to 2-lane in several locations due to steep gradient etc, while Option-IV meets the standard and specifications of National Highways.