Kohima DPDB meeting held; traffic challenges discussed with key recommendations

DIMAPUR — The Kohima District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) held its monthly meeting at the DPDB Hall, Kohima, on Tuesday. The meeting was chaired by the Deputy Commissioner and vice chairman of DPDB Kohima, Kumar Ramnikant, with Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, MLA and chairman of DPDB, also in attendance.

The meeting began with a review of the minutes from the previous session, followed by a discussion on the registration of societies, according to a DIPR report.

The registration proposal for the Sericulture Board, Nagaland, was deferred for further comments from the Sericulture department. However, the registration of the Nagaland Dart Association, Kohima, was approved and will be forwarded to higher authorities. Additionally, the proposal to open the new Jolly Stars Preschool in P Khel, Kohima, was accepted and will also be forwarded to higher authorities.

Regarding traffic congestion in Kohima, the deputy superintendent of police (traffic), Kohima, delivered a presentation outlining the current traffic challenges and potential solutions. Key recommendations included reconfiguring roundabouts, implementing one-way traffic on certain stretches during peak hours, developing link roads, constructing pedestrian-friendly foot overbridges, and enforcing the draft parking policy for Kohima City 2023.

In his address, Dr. Rhutso emphasised the need for strategic planning ahead of the upcoming Hornbill Festival, suggesting the implementation of an odd-even system for commercial vehicles and a one-way traffic system on select roads to mitigate congestion during the event.

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The additional SP Kohima also highlighted the underutilisation of foot overbridges in the city and suggested measures to increase their usage. He further proposed phasing out old vehicles and designating specific marketplaces for vendors to prevent roadside business activities.

The board also welcomed six new members during the session, and the Urban Development Department was tasked with presenting an overview of its ongoing activities at the next DPDB meeting.