The Sub-Divisional Planning and Development Board (SDPDB) Bhandari has set March 31, 2026 as the target deadline for completion of the ongoing Foothills Road construction covering approximately 39 kilometres in Bhandari sub-division, including five steel bridges along the stretch.
Chairing the SDPDB meeting held on February 13 at the Summer House-Cum-Guest House Conference Hall, MLA and SDPDB Chairman Achumbemo Kikon reiterated the need for maintaining quality standards while expediting work to ensure timely completion.
He urged construction companies, contractors, government departments, civil society organisations, and the public — particularly from Yanmhon and Champang village areas as well as Bhandari town — to contribute collectively toward making the Foothill Road functional within the stipulated timeframe.
The meeting, attended by departmental officials, construction firms, NGOs and community leaders, reviewed progress across different segments of the road project. Representatives from construction companies reported that despite facing delays of nearly four months last year due to pending issues and prolonged monsoon conditions affecting extensive earthwork, manpower and machinery have since been mobilised to accelerate work.
According to project representatives, major components including cross-drainage structures and protection works are nearing completion, with additional workforce and equipment currently deployed to ensure adherence to design specifications and project timelines.
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Executive Engineer, PWD (R&B), Kuhovi Sema informed the house that construction of the five steel bridges is progressing satisfactorily and is expected to be completed within the scheduled timeframe.
However, concerns were also raised regarding structural safeguards. Representing bridge construction firms, Yanthungrhomo Mozhui highlighted the need for proper construction of wing walls and emphasised the importance of effective drainage systems to prevent waterlogging and potential structural damage.
During the meeting, T Amos Kikon, President of the Lotha Lower Range Public Organisation, also spoke on the PMGSY Sungkha Road project connecting six villages – Roni Old, Mongphio, Lishuyo, Sungkha, Lio Wokha and Hayiyan – to the rest of the sub-division. While acknowledging ongoing development initiatives in the 40 Bhandari Assembly Constituency, he stressed that developmental works should be entrusted to agencies genuinely committed to public welfare and progress.
The Foothills Road project is viewed as a critical infrastructure initiative expected to improve regional connectivity and facilitate movement of goods and people across the subdivision once completed.