In a notable demonstration of unity, residents from 17 villages under the constituencies of Pughoboto, Sataka, and Atoizu in Zunheboto district, Nagaland, gathered for a peaceful rally on Saturday to protest against the deplorable road conditions in their areas.
Public Forum Highlights Grievances:
A ‘Public Forum’ representing the 17 villages, residing under the Section-(3) of Showuba-Pangsha (East-West Corridor road), orchestrated the protest at Saptiqa town EAC headquarters in Zunheboto district. The forum emphasized that the dilapidated roads vividly portray unfulfilled promises and the overall underdevelopment of the area, making justice a focal point for their agitation.
Memorandum Submission and Allegations Against NHIDCL:
The Public Forum submitted a memorandum to Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang, the minister in charge of National Highways and Planning Transformation, through the Deputy Commissioner of Zunheboto. Convenor Vitoho Zhimo accused the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) of diverting from the initially proposed two-lane road project under the East-West Corridor Road, favoring only one village, Chishilimi, and neglecting the concerns of 17 villages with a combined population of over 20,000. Also read List Of Sumi Villages
False Reports and Fabricated Reasons:
Zhimo alleged that NHIDCL shifted the route from the initial plan by submitting false reports claiming the route encroached the Ghosu Bird Sanctuary. A subsequent survey by a four-member team from the Public Forum confirmed that the proposed route through the 17 villages did not encroach any protected areas. The Forum accused NHIDCL of fabricating reasons to advance their ulterior motives and neglect the legitimate needs of the 17 villages.
Decades of Hardship and Plea for Action:
Zhimo emphasized that the 17 villages have endured over fifty decades of untold hardships due to the lack of reliable and all-weather roads. The dire road conditions have led to tragic consequences, with lives lost due to the challenges posed by the inadequate infrastructure. Also read Chozuba Range Public Organisation (CRPO) Announces Disassociation from Chakhesang-Sumi Brotherhood
Warning to NHIDCL:
In a stern warning, Zhimo cautioned NHIDCL that failure to implement the proposed two-lane project connecting the seventeen villages would lead the forum to pursue further lawful means for the project’s implementation. The Forum remains determined to fight for improved infrastructure and better road conditions for the welfare of the local inhabitants. Also Read LIST OF NAGA TRIBES POPULATION
