The Razeba Public Organization stands with the CPO to oppose the proposed mountain radar in Pfutsero, citing environmental risks.
Share
DIMAPUR — The Razeba Public Organisation (RPO) has expressed its opposition to the proposed installation of an advanced mountain radar system in Pfutsero.
In a press statement, the organisation stated that it stands in full solidarity with the Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) and the people of the region in expressing serious concerns about the project's long-term environmental implications and its adverse impact on sustainable tourism.
Noting that Pfutsero and its surrounding areas constitute a fragile highland ecosystem of significant ecological value within Nagaland, the RPO stated that the proposed installation would entail extensive land alteration, including vegetation clearance and associated infrastructure development, leading to irreversible changes in the natural landscape.
"Such interventions carry a high risk of biodiversity loss and disruption to endemic flora and fauna that sustain the ecological balance of the region," it read.
In addition, the RPO maintained that the operational footprint of the radar system, encompassing electromagnetic emissions and continuous mechanical activity, raises legitimate concerns regarding its potential effects on wildlife behaviour and habitat stability. Given the sensitivity of this environment, the cumulative ecological cost warrants rigorous, transparent, and independent environmental assessment, it added.
Read more: CPO opposes proposed mountain radar installation at Pfutsero, seeks relocation outside Nagaland
Kuzha Tephe Public Organisation opposes IAF radar project at Pfutsero
"The proposal also presents a direct challenge to Pfutsero's emerging eco-tourism economy. The area's scenic character, climatic appeal, and relative tranquillity are central to its identity as a destination. The introduction of large-scale defence infrastructure, along with attendant restrictions and disturbances, would materially diminish its attractiveness, thereby affecting livelihoods that depend on community-led tourism and small-scale enterprises," it was further said.
The RPO registered its "strong and principled opposition" to the use of indigenous land for militarisation without prior and informed consent of the local communities and added that the proposed project raises fundamental concerns regarding land rights, community autonomy, and the long-term social consequences of converting civilian landscapes into strategic installations.
Development and national security objectives must be pursued in a manner that respects the rights, identity, and aspirations of the people who inhabit these lands, the RPO stated.
In light of this, the Razeba Public Organisation urged the competent authorities to reconsider the siting of this project and to ensure that any decision is preceded by comprehensive impact assessments and meaningful stakeholder consultation.