Aggrieved landowners block a section of the NH-29 Kohima–Jessami road over compensation issues on July 17. The blockade was temporarily suspended on August 6. (Morung File Photo/Handout)
KOHIMA/JESSAMI, August 6 (MExN): The aggrieved landowners affected by the Kohima–Jessami 2-lane road construction project (Packages 2B to 5) on National Highway-29 today announced the immediate suspension of the ongoing blockade on all NHIDCL-related works and activities on the stretch.
The decision to suspend the agitation was taken following intervention and requests made by the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police Phek, Chakhesang Public Organisation, and Chakhesang Mothers' Association during a meeting convened by the DC Phek on August 6.
Accordingly, the blockade, in operation since July 17, will remain suspended until the end of August to “give diplomacy a chance and provide an opportunity for ongoing talks at the highest ministerial level to yield positive outcomes,” the landowners informed in a statement.
The decision to suspend the blockade reflects the landowners' commitment to resolving the issues through peaceful dialogue and negotiations, it added.
As per the statement, the ongoing talks hold the promise of addressing the grievances raised by the aggrieved landowners and finding an amicable resolution to the concerns surrounding the road construction project.
However, the landowners cautioned that if the issues are not resolved by the stipulated date, they reserve the right to resume their agitation with “more extreme measures.”
They further urged all stakeholders involved in the negotiations to prioritise finding a mutually acceptable solution that upholds the rights and interests of the landowners while ensuring the progress of the road construction project.
The landowners further expressed hope that the ongoing talks would lead to a satisfactory resolution and committed to engaging in good faith during the negotiation process.
The aggrieved landowners affected by the Kohima–Jessami 2-lane road construction project have been urging the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to prioritise the settlement of pending compensation claims for damages caused during physical earth cutting since 2021.
