DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 29 (MExN): The Chakhroma Youth Organization (CYO) has reaffirmed its decision to disallow the installation of gas pipeline within Chakhroma jurisdiction, which runs along stretches of National Highway-29.
This was resolved at a joint consultative meeting held on September 25 at Medziphema Town, Chümoukedima between CYO and concerned villages where the proposed gas pipeline is to be installed.
The gas pipeline in question is the Dergaon (Assam) - Dimapur-Kohima-Imphal GIS pipeline project, which is to be executed by Indradhanush Gas Grid Limited (IGGL), and authorized by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board. The project had reportedly received a NOC from the state government in January this year.
A press release issued by CYO with signatures appended by the village council chairmen of Chümoukedima, Medziphema, New Chümoukedima, Seithekema A, Seithekema C, Pherima, Pherima A, Tsiepama Model, Khuokhidolong, Jhatnapani and Piphema Khena Krüta Krotho said the decision was reached while taking into consideration the multiple incidents that has occurred across the country in various states due to bursting of gas pipelines, leading to loss of lives and properties despite undertaking all safety measures.
It expressed fear and apprehension that the installation of the gas pipeline may endanger the lives of the people residing in the villages along the Chümoukedima-Piphema stretch of NH-29, which incidentally is also prone to landslide, mudslide, rockslide/falls etc.
It also cited the National Centre for Seismology data mentioning that Nagaland is in the Seismic Zone-V, which is a vulnerable zone for major earthquakes. The CYO further pointed out that Nagaland has a very poor and unorganized infrastructure which will only add to more serious emergencies.
Although the proposed gas pipeline project may be for the greater convenience of gas market and the economy, the CYO, however, said the demerits and draw backs anticipated are beyond reasonable doubt and could lead to loss of lives and properties even on a slightest mishap or technical breakdown.
Taking into consideration these factors, the CYO said it was unanimously decided that installing gas pipeline within the jurisdiction of Chakhroma is infeasible. It, meanwhile, asked the IGGL contractor to refrain from undertaking any developmental activities and cautioned that they will be held entirely responsible for any untoward incidents. The CYO also informed that it will be the only mandated organization to take-up the grievances of the affected landowners.
