The Kikruma Village Council has expressed their growing concern over the suspension of construction works on the Kohima-Jessami road, a crucial project aimed at improving connectivity in the region. In a letter addressed to the General Manager of PMU-Pfutsero, the village council highlighted the urgency of the issue and the potential impact it may have on the area.
The villagers in their letter stated that they were initially thrilled when the Kohima to Jessami project was sanctioned in 2020, as it promised to enhance the connectivity of their villages. However, the complete halt in construction works over the past two months has caused anxiety among the residents, the villagers noted.
Stating that the region is prone to landslides, as evidenced by the previous year’s monsoon season, the village council said that the suspension of construction during the onset of the monsoon has raised concerns about further delays and disruptions.
Adding to the worries, it has been reported that construction on Kohima-Jessami Package-V has also been terminated, leading to protests by the locals. With the suspension of works in Package-II, the entire highway construction project is now at a standstill. The village council said that the situation threatens to disrupt the connectivity between Kezo Town-Kikruma, which connects Pfutsero Town, potentially leading to unrest and dissatisfaction among the affected population.
The mobility of people, agricultural produce, and merchandise will stand adversely affected due to these developments, the village council further said.
According to the village council, the NHIDCL has terminated the agreement of the construction contractor of M/s. KCPL and instructed KCPL to stop the construction work abruptly.
“It may not be out of place to mention that with the suspension of the highway construction works, even regular maintenance works have come to a standstill, which could lead to significant health and safety concerns, particularly in light of the impending monsoon season,” the council added.
In light of these concerns, the Kikruma Village Council has urgently appealed to the project’s authorities to take immediate action and resume construction works and maintenance before the onset of the monsoon. The villagers fear a repeat of last year’s havoc caused by landslides at over 60 locations, and they emphasize the importance of addressing the situation promptly to ensure the safety and livelihoods of the people in the area.
The Kikruma Village Council earnestly hopes for a prompt response and swift action to reinstate construction works and emphasize that the timely completion of the project is crucial for the well-being and economic development of the affected communities.
