Niuland GBs highlight road connectivity priorities in memo to minister

DIMAPUR — The Niuland District GB’s Association along with its sub-units submitted a memorandum to the state minister for Public Works Department (Roads and Bridges), G Kaito Aye on Friday.

In the memorandum, the association, representing five areas and 109 villages, drew attention to critical infrastructure needs for the newly established Niuland district, especially in terms of road connectivity.

The memorandum was handed over to the minister during an event organised by the Niuland Area Students Union at S Vihoto village, informed a press release from the association’s media and publicity cell.

As per the release, the joint memorandum proposed the creation of a new 14- kilometre road connecting Zubza bridge to Rengmapani via Niuland town. The road, it said, was of high economic importance as it enables interstate connectivity with Assam. While improving connectivity Kohima district and Wokha district via Assam, it would also be a game changer for reviving the local economy, easing movement of students, and creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs, it stated.

The memorandum also proposed a tourism-related road to Ghokuto village, 6 km from Nihoku EAC Headquarter junction, identified as a future must-visit destination for tourists and a peak viewpoint for Dimapur and Niuland district.

Highlighting the potential benefits of better road connectivity in attracting investments, creating opportunities, and fostering overall growth for the welfare of the public, it further stated that the GBs would facilitate developmental activities in all possible ways.

It said that some of the targeted sectors include agri-based industries and tea, eco, agro, and adventure tourism, which have inherent strength in the foothill plain areas, and urged for innovative initiatives to harness the potential of these sectors.

Additionally, the memorandum commended the ongoing quality work carried out by Vipe Enterprise and supporting firms extending from 4th Mile Junction to Zubza bridge (21.89 km). Noting the completion of the entire DBM first layer and its positive impact on vehicular movements, it stressed the need for timely release of bills by the department to ensure completion during the working season.

The association also requested the minister and department for the inclusion of drainage in the entire stretch and additional retaining walls and culverts in crucial areas that were initially not included in the DPR. It urged for expansion of the culvert at Nihokhu where a fatal accident occurred, requesting its inclusion in the ongoing work before closure, with extended timelines for completion.

The association expressed gratitude to the minister for “a patient hearing and positive government support” to address the critical infrastructure needs of the newly-formed district.