Pressure is mounting on the State Government to issue the Phase-II work order for the Foothills Road project before the March 31 deadline, with the Western Chakhesang Hoho (WCH) joining Dimapur-based tribal hohos in calling for immediate action.
In a statement, the WCH, along with its frontal organisations – the Western Chakhesang Students Union (WCSU), Western Chakhesang Mothers Association (WCMA), and Western Chakhesang Youth Organisation (WCYO) – extended “unequivocal support” to the collective memorandum submitted to the Government of Nagaland on February 21, demanding continuation of the two-lane Foothills Road construction under the SASCI scheme.
The organisations urged that the Phase-II work order be issued “on or before March 31, without fail,” stressing that any delay could undermine public confidence and stall the momentum of the long-standing project.
Describing the Foothills Road as the “People’s Road,” the WCH said the project embodies the shared aspirations of the Nagas for improved connectivity, economic growth, and integration. It noted that since its inception in 2013, the road has stood as a symbol of unity and collective effort across districts and communities.
While acknowledging the project as both a people-driven initiative and a reflection of government commitment, the organisations cautioned that the present juncture requires “constructive dialogue, mutual understanding, and coordinated action” among all stakeholders to avoid disruptions.
Significantly, the WCH asserted that the ongoing two-lane construction under the SASCI scheme must remain the immediate priority and should not be conflated with other proposals at this stage.
“Any deviation or delay will compel the people to democratically assert their rightful demands,” the statement said, indicating the possibility of public response if the deadline is not met.
Reaffirming its stand, the WCH and its frontal bodies said they remain resolute in supporting the Dimapur-based tribal hohos and will continue to uphold the collective demand until a “logical and satisfactory conclusion” is achieved.
The development signals growing pressure from civil society organisations on the government to ensure continuity of the Foothills Road project, with the March 31 deadline emerging as a key point of focus.