Ukhrul-Jessami National Highway 202 came to a standstill last Sunday following a mishap involving a timber-laden truck bound for Nagaland at Phangrei in Ukhrul district. The incident, resulting in significant inconvenience for commuters, led to a complete blockade of vehicular movement from both directions.
According to reports, one truck veered off the road on Saturday, teetering dangerously close to the edge, while another lost control and collided with the opposite side of the thoroughfare at the same location.
From the early hours of Sunday, a multitude of vehicles, including those carrying passengers, witnessed prolonged delays along the highway. Despite the relentless efforts of heavy machinery deployed to extricate the stranded trucks, the impasse persisted until midnight before the road was finally cleared.
The two timber-laden trucks involved in the mishap were obstructing the passage at the approach road of Phangrei. Fortunately, no casualties were reported as a result of the incident.
It has been underscored that the current state of the roadway is unsuitable for the transit of heavy vehicles. The incessant movement of laden trucks has exacerbated the ordeal for commuters, rendering the highway virtually impassable.
Athing R, who spent the night at the accident site due to the prolonged road closure, voiced strong criticism against both the truck owners and the relevant authorities. He emphasized the unjustifiable nature of blocking the highway for an extended period, at the expense of public welfare.
The dilapidated condition of this vital artery has transformed it into a nightmare for travelers. Potholes and crevices punctuate the route, subjecting motorists to a rough and uncomfortable journey. Patients, in particular, are severely impacted, compelled to navigate through various obstacles.
Of particular concern are the deep potholes, some exceeding a foot in depth, resembling fishing pits rather than road imperfections. Urgent remedial measures are imperative to address the pressing need for rehabilitation.
Efforts by the populace to draw attention to the dire situation have met with limited success, as repeated appeals to the responsible authorities have gone unheeded.
