NLA to seek alternative funding mechanism for Foothill road project

Kohima, 1 March (MTNews):  During the proceedings of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly session, discussions regarding the status of the Foothill road projects garnered attention, with government officials providing updates and addressing concerns raised by legislators.

In response to a query posed by MLA A Nyamnyie Konyak regarding the progress of the Foothill road, Minister of Public Works Department (Roads & Bridges) G Kaito Aye reported that the earthwork for the formation cutting and embankment of the 128 km single-lane road from Dimapur to Tizit, including the construction of an RCC Bridge near Governor’s Camp, has been completed.

Minister Aye noted that while the project couldn’t be accommodated under the North Eastern Council (NEC) due to its substantial cost, the Chief Minister’s allocation of Rs. 148.50 crores from the State Fund demonstrated the government’s commitment to the project.

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio echoed Minister Aye’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the Foothill Road project for the entire state. He assured the Assembly of the government’s dedication to expediting the road’s completion and pledged to explore additional funding avenues from the central government. Furthermore, CM Rio announced plans for a consultative meeting with relevant department officials and elected representatives from areas traversed by the road to strategize on project execution and fund utilization.

Regarding another inquiry raised by MLA Nuklutoshi regarding the Foothill Project from Tuli to Niuland NH 61 via Longchem – Champang – Governor’s Camp under the Special Accelerated Road Development Programme for North East (SARDP-NE) Phase-B, Minister in-charge of National Highways TR Zeliang disclosed that the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, had allocated Rs. 1.43 crores for the project but suggested the state government apply under the PM Gati Shakti Scheme rather than SARDP. Minister Zeliang informed the Assembly of the state’s pursuit of project sanction under the PM Gati Shakti Scheme and exploration of alternative funding mechanisms.

In response to concerns raised by Minister Nuklutoshi regarding project bottlenecks, he advocated for a systematic approach to project completion and called upon BJP legislators from Foothill Project areas to advocate for central government support.