The progress of the Nagaland Foothill Road construction was reviewed during the monthly SDPDB meeting of Bhandari sub-division held at the Conference Hall of the Summer House-Cum-Guest House, Bhandari, on April 10, 2026.
Chairman SDPDB Bhandari and MLA Achumbemo Kikon emphasized the importance of the road project, describing it as a key infrastructure link for the region, while reviewing the progress and expected timeline for completion of the ongoing works.
Kikon highlighted the specific road stretch under Bhandari sub-division, covering approximately 105 km, and discussed the projected requirements for completion of the remaining construction work.
He urged landowners, public leaders, and tribal bodies to extend cooperation to ensure smooth execution of the project.
He also stressed that sustained public participation would be crucial to ensure timely completion of the road, which he said could enhance connectivity and strengthen prospects for upgrading the route to national highway standards.
Officials present, including Extra Additional Commissioner and Secretary SDPDB Bhandari Kilangtemsu NCS, reviewed the minutes of the previous meeting and participated in discussions on ongoing developmental issues.
During the meeting, the Power Department, Electrical Division Wokha, also sensitised members on the phased installation of prepaid smart meters under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). Officials said the first phase would cover government offices and quarters, followed by commercial establishments and other consumers in subsequent phases.
Er Vungthungo L Murry, SDO Electrical Sanis, urged village chairmen, Gaonburas from Baghty, Merapani and Bhandari areas, and town councillors to help create awareness among consumers on the benefits of smart metering, including improved billing efficiency, reduced power theft, and better energy monitoring.
The meeting also witnessed a community support initiative, where the Lotha Officers Association, Wokha unit, led by its president Er S Benrio Kithan, donated wheelchairs to the Community Health Centre (CHC) Bhandari under its ‘Reach Out’ program.
Chairman SDPDB also raised the issue of posting a Senior Medical Officer (SMO) at CHC Bhandari, stating that the position should be filled at the earliest following the recent transfer of the incumbent officer.