The Ao Senden on Wednesday conducted an inspection of the construction work along the Wati Lenjem (Yajang junction) to Wamakenyimsen village stretch of the historic Nagaland Foothills Road. The inspection team, which included representatives from the Department of PWD (R&B) Tuli, Langpangkong Tzukong Mungdang, and the Wamaken Village Council, expressed satisfaction with the quality of the work.
“The construction works have been found to be as per specifications and most satisfactory till date,” the Ao Senden stated, extending praise to contractor Mongkum Jamir for his “quality workmanship.”
The Ao Senden also conveyed gratitude to the Government of Nagaland under Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, under whose leadership the project, initiated by the Apex Tribal Hohos in 2013, has continued. “In this dozen of years the State Government has provided the necessary funds while the Nagaland Foothills Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC)…carried out many groundbreaking tasks,” the statement added.
Highlighting the NFHRCC’s efforts, the Ao Senden noted that the committee has played a pivotal role in negotiating with Naga political groups to prevent tax imposition on contractors and with landowners to secure land without compensation. “It is to the credit of the NFHRCC that some landowners have donated well-developed lands incurring losses to themselves, amounting to more than hundreds of crore at the new re-alignment at Wati Lenjem (Yajang junction) to Wamakenyimsen village stretch under Mokokchung District, in a meeting on 23/09/2024 at Community Hall Wamaken Village,” the statement added.
The Ao Senden expressed deep appreciation for the landowners who sacrificed their lands without financial compensation. “As a stakeholder, Ao Senden is indeed grateful to all the landowners who have donated and sacrificed their well-developed lands without taking even a single paise of money as compensation.”
However, the Ao Senden raised concerns over reluctance among certain contractors to adhere to the traditional agreement established in 2013. “We dare to leave it to the wisdom of the people of Nagaland what would happen when more funds are forthcoming in the future years,” the Senden cautioned, urging hesitant contractors to “bring their problem to the table and seek a solution amicably.”
A firm resolution by the Ao Senden, Lotha Hoho, and Sumi Hoho stated that no contractors would be allowed to work under their jurisdictions if they do not follow the 2013 agreement. “This resolution made on 16th January 2025 at Mokokchung was reaffirmed on 4th February at Wokha and also declared before the Hon’ble Minister of PWD (R&B) on 7th February,” the statement confirmed.
The Ao Senden expressed disappointment over the delay in scheduling a meeting with the NFHRCC, which was expected to resolve the standoff between the Apex Tribal Hohos and the reluctant contractors. “Lamentably, this scheduled meeting is yet to be called by the Department of PWD (R&B)!” the statement read.
Reiterating its stance, the Ao Senden warned, “It is reiterated that those contractors who refuse to sign the implementing agreement with us for the Foothills Road will not be allowed to carry out contract works under Ao Senden jurisdiction.”
Tribal Hohos seek resolution on Foothills Road dispute
Meanwhile, The Nagaland Foothills Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC) held a closed-door meeting with 12 Dimapur-based tribal Hohos on Tuesday to resolve the ongoing misunderstanding with the state government concerning the Foothills Road project.
Representatives from the tribal Hohos, while extending support to the NFHRCC, emphasized their commitment to addressing concerns and ensuring fair treatment for all parties. The committee also refuted allegations of political bias, asserting its neutral stance in the selection of contractors and its dedication to the community’s welfare.
The representatives reiterated that the Foothills Road project is for the people of Nagaland and urged all parties to engage in urgent dialogue to avoid further delays.
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