The monthly meeting of the SDPDB Bhandari, Wokha, was held at the Conference Hall of the Summer House-Cum-Guest House in Bhandari, with MLA and Chairman of SDPDB Bhandari, Achumbemo Kikon, presiding on the 10th of March, 2025.
Additional Deputy Commissioner of Bhandari, Longasen Lotha, welcomed new members to the board and reviewed the minutes of the previous meeting.
While reviewing the recent confrontation between the public of Old Ralan and the Central Reserved Police Force (CRPF) stationed at the DAB area, MLA & Chairman Achumbemo Kikon stated that no one has the right to interfere with or hinder the developmental activities undertaken within the ancestral land.
Border Magistrate of Uriamghat, Tsenthungo E. Ngullie, informed the house that tension arose when the CRPF attempted to stop the installation of solar panels by the IOCL technical experts, arguing that the petrol pump is within the ancestral land of Old Ralan village. The Border Magistrate further emphasized that the Oil Station at Old Ralan is the only one in the area and was commissioned by the IOCL after years of struggle by the public.
In deliberations on the progress of ongoing road construction under the Foothill Road project, PWD (R&B) Baghty Division informed the house that, regarding the Pangtong VR Junction to Merapani stretch, realignment may be required due to natural factors. The division suggested that the road could be constructed along the upstream of the Yangri River, which would involve fresh cutting of about 800 meters, widening an existing stretch of around 1200 meters, and the construction of a bridge across the Yangri River. In this regard, MLA Kikon stressed that road construction should adhere to prescribed specifications, and work should be expedited to ensure completion before the monsoon.
SDEO Bhandari informed the board of challenges in transferring teachers from the SDEO Bhandari establishment, noting that some schools are manned by only one or two teachers, while others face an acute shortage of teachers.
While highlighting the departmental activities of the Power Department, JE, Power, stated that work is ongoing for the installation of 1.6 MVA power transformers.
The Assistant Conservator of Forest, Baghty Range, also apprised the board that the critically endangered species of Soft Shell Black Turtle, found in its natural habitat of Akuk and Mekukla areas, is further endangered due to mining activities. He mentioned that, while planning is underway for its protection and preservation, rejuvenating soil conservation for wildlife preservation is equally important.
After the Planning Board meeting, MLA Achumbemo inaugurated the newly constructed APMC Office in Bhandari and the Lotha Morung (Chumpo), both constructed under the State Plan 2023-24 by the Department of Arts & Culture, Government of Nagaland.
He also flagged off the 5th edition of the Departmental Sports Week, Bhandari, as the special inaugural guest.