Mokokchung, August 31 (MExN): The Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM), on Monday extended full support to the Ao Senden's stand on the proposed realignment of National Highway 702D (NH-702D), urging the Nagaland government to favourably consider Option-IV if the No Objection Certificate (NOC) is not granted for Option-III (British Road/Chungliyimsen).
AKM President Lanulemba Longchar and General Secretary Aomayang Longkumer in a press statement it said the final decision on the realignment must be guided by long-term public interest, technical feasibility, road safety, economic efficiency and future connectivity, rather than short-term considerations. “At the same time, proper feeder roads connecting villages and rural communities to the National Highway must be given equal importance to ensure that the benefits of the project reach the people at the grassroots level,” it said.
AKM reiterated that NH-702D is not merely a road project; it is a strategic lifeline for the people of Mokokchung and the neighbouring districts. “Government records also identify NH-702D as an approximately 85-km highway connecting Mokokchung with Mariani,” it added.
AKM appreciated the Ao Senden for “consistently pursuing this matter and placing the larger interests of the people before the concerned authorities,” and reiterated its solidarity with the apex tribal body on the issue.
The students’ body also called for proper feeder roads connecting villages and rural communities to the highway, saying this was equally important to ensure the project's benefits reach people at the grassroots level.
AKM appealed to the Government of Nagaland and all concerned authorities for transparency, technical objectivity and timely action, saying the “long-pending” NH-702D project should not face further delay at the cost of the people and the region's development.
