Delay in completion of 4-lane highway affecting economy–Therie

Dimapur, Nov. 9 (EMN): The president of Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) K Therie has stated that the delay in completing the construction of four-lane highway between Dimapur and Kohima has created serious negative impact on the economy of vendors, entrepreneurs, and the living conditions of people residing near the road.

In a statement issued on Monday, the NPCC chief said that “in the first place”, the Nagaland government had refused to pay 100% solatium to the citizens of the state.

“When represented for payment, the government replied simply that the Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act 2013 cannot be applied in Nagaland in view of Article 371-A. If so, the government should have amended the Nagaland Land (Requisition and Acquisition) Act of 1965 to give benefit to the land and property owners.

“The travel time has doubled and transportation costs have nearly doubled. All the prices of essential commodities have gone up by almost 100%. One cft of Assam sand at Phek now costs INR 150 while local sand costs INR 110. At Kiphire, it is INR 215 and INR 175 respectively. Ever since regional government came to power, the government has had no concern to control prices,” he claimed

From the time construction began, citizens residing along the highway have been exposed to perpetual dust clouds, which is a serious health concern, he added.

Therie demanded that the governor and the chief minister take initiative to direct and supervise the contractors to finish the roads in town and village areas within this winter season.