The Zhadima Village Council (ZVC) has expressed “deep concern” over what it termed the prolonged neglect of two vital roads connecting Kohima and Dimapur, the state’s capital and commercial hub respectively.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the council highlighted the Kohima–Bokajan Road, which passes through Zhadima–Niuland and connects to Dimapur, as “one of the oldest routes in Nagaland, constructed by the British during World War II.”
“Stretching approximately 68 kilometres, this road has, for decades, served as an alternate lifeline to Dimapur and beyond whenever National Highway 29 faces disruptions. Yet, despite its historical and strategic significance, it has remained neglected, even after repeated appeals for attention,” the ZVC said.
The council also drew attention to the Capital Bypass Road from Kohima to Dimapur via Tsiesema–Zhadima–Viphoma–Niuland, which measures about 56 kilometres. “Construction under Phase III (Kohima–Tsiesema) has been completed, while Phase II (Zhadima–Viphoma) is nearly complete and motorable. Unfortunately, the Phase I stretch (Niuland–Dimapur) remains incomplete owing to unresolved land issues,” it said.
“The stipulated time for the completion of this road has already expired, yet the work remains unfinished. ZVC wishes to question why the concerned department has failed to deliver despite repeated assurances,” the statement read, adding that “it is disheartening that while one important road has been left in isolation, the other remains incomplete for reasons best known to the department.”
The ZVC pointed out that the matter had also been “deliberated in detail during the Nagaland Legislative Assembly last year, but no positive outcome has yet emerged.” The council stated that it “strongly feels that if the department cannot resolve the matter, then the Government of Nagaland must intervene, shoulder responsibility, and take decisive steps to ease the hardships of the public.”
The ZVC also extended its “unflinching support” to Hovishe and Ghotovi villages “in their protest against the prolonged inaction of the department.”
“At the same time, we fervently appeal to the two villages to reconsider their decision to impose an indefinite ban, keeping in mind the plight of ordinary and innocent citizens who continue to suffer untold hardships due to the condition of NH-29,” it said.
“While fully understanding the frustration that has built up over years of neglect and delay, ZVC appeals to all parties to allow good sense to prevail and to resolve these matters amicably through dialogue and negotiation. Only by doing so can the welfare and larger interests of the people be safeguarded,” the statement added.
The statement was signed by Roko Angami, VDB Secretary, and Neilalhoulie Soliezuo, Chairman of the Zhadima Village Council.