DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 28 (MExN): The Phom Peoples’ Council (PPC) has called for an amicable resolution to the ongoing disputes surrounding the Foothills Road project in Nagaland. The PPC urged all stakeholders involved to resolve their differences promptly and accelerate work on the project before the arrival of the monsoon season.
In a statement, the PPC expressed concern over the ongoing disagreements between the Nagaland Foothills Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC), contractors, and the relevant government department. The council described the situation as “unsettling” and called for reflection on how to accomplish the project, which it described as an important initiative for the community.
The PPC emphasized the need for cooperation and urged stakeholders to prioritize the timely completion of the road. The council also encouraged the resolution of internal disputes in a constructive manner, with the greater good of the community in mind.
Acknowledging the state government’s support for the project, the PPC noted that its commitment to infrastructure development has played a significant role in the progress of the initiative. It also commended the NFHRCC for its efforts in driving the project forward but highlighted that recent differences between the NFHRCC and the government could potentially impact the project’s timeline and success.
The PPC called for both parties to engage in dialogue and find common ground to ensure the project's timely completion. “This approach will not only ensure the project’s success but also reinforce public trust in the state's ability to manage critical infrastructure projects,” the council stated.
In addition, the PPC emphasized that its representatives in the NFHRCC would oversee the quality of the construction work to ensure that the project meets the required standards.
LH criticizes Foothills road work launch
In a separate development, the Lotha Hoho condemned the launch of construction work on the Foothills Road at Khumjo Yan on February 21. The organization stated that the project began without the approval of several tribal apex organizations, including the Ao Senden, Sumi Hoho, and Lotha Hoho.
The Lotha Hoho referred to a resolution passed on January 16 at a meeting in Mokokchung, which stipulated that contractors who did not sign an implementation agreement with the NFHRCC should not be allowed to carry out work on the project. The organization cited this practice as having been in place since the project’s initiation in 2013.
The Lotha Hoho justified its position by citing the failure of previous development projects in Nagaland, despite official agreements. The organization referenced projects such as the Wokha–Merapani Road and the Wokha Town section of NH-2 as examples where agreements were not followed through effectively.
While reiterating the shared goal of ensuring quality work, the Lotha Hoho called on all parties to resolve their differences and work together to achieve the project’s objectives. The organization also urged contractors, including M/S JK Construction Co and M/S Chabou & Co, who have not yet signed the implementation agreement, to do so to facilitate the smooth continuation of the project.
