In a united appeal for urgent government intervention, the Kiphire District Commercial Vehicle Union (KDCVU), Meluri District Truck Union (MDTU), and Phek District Truck Union (PDTU) held a joint meeting in Meluri Town on October 11 last to address the worsening condition of key road networks across the region.
Representing the drivers who serve as the lifeline for general public, the unions voiced serious concern over the dangerous and neglected stretches of roads.
The truckers, who transport essential commodities and construction materials to remote areas, said that they are facing immense risks and hardships due to frequent landslides, rock falls, and severely damaged roads.
The unions particularly highlighted the Chakhabama–Pfutsero stretch, where landslides are a regular occurrence, and the Losami–Lanye road, which is lined with precariously balanced rocks posing a constant danger of rock falls. Similarly, the Meluri area continues to face recurring mudslides and rock slips, while the Akhegwo–Kiphire section has deteriorated to a critical level, requiring immediate restoration.
“These road conditions are not just an inconvenience; they are a threat to public safety and economic stability,” the unions stated. They added that truckers are often stranded for days, sometimes weeks, when heavy landslides block major routes—disrupting the delivery of essential goods such as food, medicines, and other critical supplies.
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In a joint statement issued by Thilitsurr, President of Meluri District Truck Union; Yangkhong Sangtam, President of Kiphire District Commercial Vehicle Union; and Khosheta Rhakho, President of Phek District Truck Union, the Unions implored the responsible authorities to give the attention and urgency it deserves. “We are not just drivers; we are partners in ensuring the well-being of our communities,” they stated and appealed to the authorities to prioritize the repair and maintenance of these vital road networks and to establish ready standby machinery to quickly clear blockages.
The Union stated that the challenges faced by truckers are a direct reflection of the challenges faced by the people of Phek, Meluri and Kiphire. “ When a truck is stranded, it’s not just a delay for a driver; It’s a delay in getting food to our tables, medicine to our clinics, and supplies to our schools. Our collective well-being depends on the safety of these roads,” they stated.
The Unions urged the public to join them in calling on authorities to act now and secure their lifelines.
“The government must recognize that investing in safe and clear roads is a fundamental responsibility that directly impacts public safety and economic stability,” the Unions said and demanded immediate action and a dedicated plan to resolve these critical infrastructure failures.
