The Razeba Public Organization (RPO) has opposed the proposed installation of an advanced Mountain Radar System at Pfutsero.
Expressing solidarity with the Chakhesang Public Organization (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, the RPO said Pfutsero and its surrounding areas constitute a fragile highland ecosystem of significant ecological value within Nagaland.
It said 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 added.
The RPO further said the operational footprint of the radar system—encompassing electromagnetic emissions and continuous mechanical activity—raises legitimate concerns regarding its potential effects on wildlife behavior and habitat stability.
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It also said the proposal also presents a direct challenge to Pfutsero’s emerging eco-tourism economy, adding the introduction of large-scale defense 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.
RPO further registered its strong and principled opposition to the use of indigenous land for militarisation without prior and informed consent of the local communities.
“The proposed project raises fundamental concerns regarding land rights, community autonomy, and the long-term social consequences of converting civilian landscapes into strategic installations,” it said adding, 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 Razeba Public Organization 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.
It also reiterated its unwavering support to the Chakhesang Public Organisation and called for a transparent, accountable, and environmentally responsible decision-making process.
