Dimapur, February 7 (MExN): The United Naga Democratic Party (UNDP) has raised concerns on the “People’s Project” for construction of the Foot Hill Road, which has been lying unattended for the past 6-7 years.
UNDP President Hotongse Sangtam in a press release stated that the long awaited project started in 2013, under the common goal of ten Naga tribes of Nagaland (Ao, Sümi, Kyong, Rengma, Phom, Sangtam, Chang, Konyak, Yimchunger and Khiamniungan) having realized the urgent need for the people to have good road connectivity.
The Government of Nagaland subsequently enclosed the project in the priority list to the Central Government, and accordingly the Central Government sanctioned Rs 70 crore vide order dated October 21, 2013 towards the construction of the Foot Hill Road Project, and out of the said sanction amount, Doyang bridge and earth cutting at some area was done, the release said.
However, thereafter no further sanction was received, neither from the Centre nor from the State Government, and the project remained half done for the past 6-7 years.
Sangtam maintained that he “as a proud member of the People’s Project” could still sense the same strong commitment and confidence from all the Apex Tribal leaders/Hohos, Nagaland Foot Hill Road Co-ordination Committee and all members of the ten tribes towards achieving the mission.
Realizing that they have come so far in achieving this “extraordinary” project into reality, UNDP President said it was not the time to surrender. To relieve some pressure to the current financial situation, he suggested that all Government employees and pensioners of the respective ten tribes contribute one day wage and also the other bonafide members who are unemployed from 20 years of age and above to contribute Rs 200 only towards the project.
He further appealed to all the Tribal Hohos and its members to continue working towards achieving this dream project, stating “our today's work shall determine our future” and to set an example of togetherness, patience, unity and humbleness. We as a simple human being can create wonders and have major positive impact in our future generation, the release said.
