Our Correspondent
Kohima | July 20
The Nagaland government today explained that the helipad at Dzükou Valley was constructed to facilitate tourists desiring to visit the tourist hotspot but unable to spare time trekking for hours; besides, for exigencies such as emergency lifting of essential items and evacuation of sick or injured trekkers.
In reply to a starred question, Parliamentary Secretary in-charge of Tourism, Yitachu, explained that the helipad was constructed taking into consideration the fact that the picturesque Dzükou Valley has become a popular trekking spot and having the potential to attract large numbers of visitors due to its proximity to the state capital, Kohima.
The 75 by 120 feet helipad, he said, was constructed at an estimated cost of Rs.15 lakh funded under central financial assistance from the Integrated Development of Tourist Destination Kisama-Mt. Japfu Adventure Project sanctioned during 2008-09.
The helipad was constructed by cutting and leveling a rocky hillock. He added that pilots of Pawan Hans have successfully conducted trial runs.
The budget session of the Eleventh Nagaland Legislative Assembly got underway this morning with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Opposition Leader Tokheho Yepthomi making obituary references to the passing away of late Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, former Vice President of India and senior BJP leader. Shekhawat was also Chief Minister of Rajasthan for three years. Speaker Kiyanilie Peseyie also made obituary references to the passing away of late Khumting Konyak, former member of interim body, who died on June 24. Question Hour followed after which the Speaker adjourned the House till 9 a.m. on Thursday. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio is expected to present the Budget on Thursday which will be put up for discussion on Thursday and Friday.
