The Foothills Road project was the focal point of discussions during the Question Hour of the Sixth Session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly today. Roads and Bridges Minister, G. Kaito Aye, reported that the overall physical progress of the Foothill Road project stands at 4.5 percent, but the financial progress is still at zero percent. Despite these setbacks, Aye emphasized that the Foothill Road is a significant Naga project, and he remains open to discussions to find solutions that will benefit the people.
Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, addressing the Assembly, extended his gratitude to the various tribal hohos for their contributions to the development of the state. He also stressed that any grievances regarding the project should be communicated through the elected representatives.
Rio highlighted the funding situation, noting that the state government had not received any funds from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) for the project. The funding has thus far been solely provided by the state government.
The Chief Minister raised concerns over the failure to utilize the sanctioned funds in previous financial years, but assured that more funds would be expedited to ensure the completion of the Foothill Road.
While answering supplementary questions, Dr Rio reiterated that the Foothill Road is a matter of concern for all citizens of Nagaland, not just those from the affected areas. On the issue of contracting, he stated that there are several qualified contractors in the state who can take on such projects. He expressed confidence that under the leadership of Minister G Kaito Aye, the department would address public grievances and differences, ensuring that the construction proceeds smoothly and is completed on time.
Dr Rio also reflected on the history of the Foothill Road project, stating that the proposal was first raised during his tenure as Minister for Works and Housing in 1993. However, the Assam Government objected to the project when it was discussed in the North Eastern Council (NEC). As a result, the NEC’s sanction for the project was withdrawn, and the project was put on hold.
On the issue of funds, the Chief Minister clarified that the state government had not received any funding from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India. The funds received so far have been through Special Plan Assistance (SPA) and the State Annual Special Component Initiative (SASCI). To date, Rs 245.50 crore has been sanctioned for the project, and Rio assured that more funds would be allocated in the current financial year (2025-2026) to expedite its completion. However, he warned that any unutilized amounts under SASCI must be used within the financial year or face penalties, along with the risk of no further sanctions in the following years.
Dr Rio appealed to all stakeholders—including the NFRCC, leaders, CSOs, and Tribal HoHos—to lend their support to the project and work together for its successful completion.