Nagaland Foothills Road Project Faces New Controversy
The Nagaland Foothills Road, an initiative marred by challenges since its 2013 inception, faces fresh obstacles. On February 20, the Nagaland Foothills Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC), backed by 12 tribal hohos, expressed frustration over two construction firms—M/S Chabou & Co and JK Construction—refusing to comply with an agreement intended to ensure project integrity.
The NFHRCC Convenor, Supu Jamir, detailed in Dimapur that these firms plan to commence work in Khumjo Yan, Wokha district, without signing the terms which mandate quality assurance and punctuality. While other firms have agreed to this, the two firms cited discomfort with a clause asking for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) before payment, contingent on compliance with project standards. This clause aims to foster transparency, requiring NFHRCC inspection prior to fund release.
This recent development followed a February 7 meeting led by the PWD (Road & Bridges) Minister and tribal representatives, which aimed to dissolve the impasse. Although assurances were made for a further discussion involving the NFHRCC, contractors, and PWD officials, no meeting has occurred.
Furthermore, Jamir accused the firms of proceeding surreptitiously without notifying the PWD (R&B) and the Lotha Hoho, within whose jurisdiction the project resides. He emphasized that construction would not initiate until agreements are finalized, with notifications planned to halt the impending launch.
Adding a complex layer to the situation are concerns of political interference. Allegations arose as M/S Chabou & Co is owned by the Chief Minister’s son, while JK Construction is family-linked to him. Despite these challenges, Jamir asserted the NFHRCC’s commitment to the project’s proper execution, vowing to prevent political influences from derailing the project’s aims.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/stalled-nagaland-foothills-road-meets-another-road-block
Category : Nagaland
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Publish Date: 2025-02-21 00:00:00
