NTTU appeals to revoke ban order

Dimapur, April 5 (EMN): Nagaland Timber Traders’ Union (NTTU) has appealed to the Deputy Commissioner, Peren, to revoke its notification imposing ban on plying of heavy vehicles on roads within Peren district with effect from April 3 to 13 stating that it would directly hamper their business and also subjected to huge losses in terms of money and time. NTTU was responding to the order issued by the DC Peren imposing ban on plying of heavy vehicles on roads within Peren district with effect from April 3 to April 13 in view of the forthcoming parliamentary election. NTTU, in its emergency on April 4 in Dimapur, decided to submit a representation to the DC, Peren, stating that if vehicles transporting logs and timber are not allowed to ply during the above stated period, it would directly hamper their humble business and also subject to huge losses in terms of money and time. The union has decided to seek legal recourse if their genuine appeal is rejected. A NTTU press release issued by its president, Kevise Sogotsu, also reiterated removal of inter-district forest gates and other check gates stating that existing of such check gates cause untold harassment to all sections of people including entrepreneurs, businessmen, timber traders and general public. It cited instances of a truck carrying sand or bricks to Phek district, which has to pay taxes at Chumukedima, Peducha and Pfutsero check gates. It has termed them as ‘pure daylight robbery’ by those government officials and personnel manning check gates. It questioned those personnel if they are they not satisfied with the handsome salary given by the government every month. NTTU further appealed to the various Naga political groups to listen to the genuine plight of the timber traders, who are at the mercy of various forces and agencies, to desist from imposing multiple taxes on the timber traders and tree farmers who are trying to sustain themselves by the sweat of the brow.