The Rising People’s Party (RPP) has issued a strong statement criticizing the government’s inadequate response to the indefinite closure of National Highway 29 between Chümoukedima town and New Chümoukedima, which has now entered its 18th day. The RPP highlighted the severe consequences of the government’s inadequate preparedness and lack of urgency.
Despite repeated assurances from Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who visited the site shortly after the landslide and pledged swift action, the RPP claimed that “little to no progress has been made, especially at the Pagala Pahar stretch.”
The party pointed out that according to sources, while “at least 8 different firms are working to restore the road,” there is an alarming shortage of labor and equipment. “Only a handful of laborers are visible at the site, and barely 3-4 excavators are in operation,” the RPP stated. This stands in stark contrast to public perception for according to the RPP, “the citizens of this harassed state think NHIDCL is working Day and Night on a war footing adequately supervised by the PWD (NH)!”
The RPP expressed concerns about the potential long-term impact of the road closure, warning that if “40 meters of the Pagala Pahar mountainside is to be demolished for road widening,” travelers may be forced to use the dangerous Chümoukedima-New Chümoukedima by-pass road for the next 1 to 2 years.
The RPP reminded all the VIPs – Governor, CM, Ministers, and MLAs – to take the very risky Chumoukedima-New Chumoukedima by-pass road like all other travelers.
“The Dimapur Traffic Police should strictly ensure that rules are the same for everyone,” the statement read, adding that even the governor and Chief Minister “should not be spared” from this route.
Regarding the major mudslide at Zubza, the RPP requested the G.O.C., 3 Corps Rangapahar/Indian Army to lend a bulldozer or two to the state PWD (NH) and NHIDCL in removing the accumulated mud debris.
“The road here is sinking due to the load of the mud and if the laziness and lip service in the form of one excavator and two dumper trucks working through the mountain of mud continues, Kohima may be totally cut-off soon,” the party cautioned.
The Rising People’s Party also reminded Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio of his 2018 promise to construct good roads within a year.