DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 23 (MExN): The Western Angami Public Organization (WAPO) today stated that no gas pipeline connection will be allowed Under Package III stretch of the National Highway 29 till the four lane road construction is satisfactorily completed as per its DPR and specifications.
A press release from the WAPO reminded that “our lands, consisting of numerous landowners have been concertedly leased out to NHIDCL just for the purpose of four lane highway construction and not for any other projects at the moment.” The WAPO viewed that paying off land compensation for a certain agreed project doesn't mean anything can be installed or established regardless of the safety and health hazard of the denizens of the vicinity.
“Under no circumstance any other projects to be undertaken will be allowed till the primary project is accomplished and a fresh MOU signed with the apex organization of the area, especially for those projects which may endanger people's safety,” it stated.
While recognizing that there is no 100% safety for any modern project, the WAPO noted that “gas plant tragedies in India and worldwide are found to be enormously common.” It added that “our stretch of land is a moisturized, sinking and landslide prone zone, together with the presence of plenty of ground water that also hastens the process of corrosion and oxidation of metal; hence the said project is likely to pose risk to the denizens in spite of certain marginal benefits that may accrue to the people.”
Therefore, it stated that any discourse and deliberation for public approval of such new project can be initiated only when the primary project (the four lane) is completed and the satisfactory safety measures for laying of such gas pipe line is assured.
“Till such time, if any company or agency involves itself in any activity, like the ongoing gas pipeline connection without the prior permission of public organization of the area, the indulging company shall be held responsible for any untoward incidence that may happen from any quarters,” it cautioned.
