Western Sümi Hoho counters TR Zeliang’s statement; clarifies on Capital Bypass road delay

DIMAPUR — The Western Sümi Hoho (WSH) has contested statements made by Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang during the just concluded Assembly Session, regarding the stalled Capital Bypass road project via Zhadima.

On the Dy. CM claim that land disputes involving three villages in Niuland is responsible for the delay of the road project, the WSH clarified that only two villages had initially raised compensation claims.

“However, with the intervention of WSH, the matter was amicably resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding,” it said in a press release on Friday.

The WSH expressed disappointment over the failure to acknowledge the progress made in resolving the land dispute.

“We believe the Dy. CM’s claim that the land dispute is the reason for the delay is misleading and does not align with the actual facts. An agreement was reached, wherein landowners agreed to withdraw their claims for compensations. This agreement was reached after a series of meetings and negotiations involving WSH,” read the press release.

Urging the Dy. CM to reconsider his statement and recognise the constructive efforts of all parties involved, the hoho emphasised its commitment to a swift resolution of any remaining obstacles to ensure the project’s timely completion.

This will ease the hardship of commuters plying between Dimapur and Kohima, particularly during the monsoon season, and foster greater collaboration and trust between the government and local communities, it added.