The Lotha Hoho convened a consultative meeting regarding the alignment of the Foothill Road, which passes through Wokha district within its jurisdiction and connects different regions across the state, wherein, it was resolved that no alternate realignment or deviation from the proposed road would be allowed, as it would negatively impact the affected Foothill stretch under Wokha district.
During the meeting, Lotha Hoho chairman Mhondamo Ovung apprised the gathering that the Hoho stands firmly for the interest and welfare of the Lotha community. He reaffirmed that the Lotha Hoho maintains its position as stated in its earlier letter on alignment, submitted to the Chief Engineer of Roads & Bridges (NPWD) on June 4, 2024.
To emphasize the importance of the Foothill Road project, the Lotha Hoho reaffirmed its commitment to its earlier stance and acknowledged the concerns of the 22 aggrieved villagers from the Changpang and Bhandari circles. The Hoho also expressed support for the press statement issued by the Lotha Lower Range Organization, published in local dailies on May 13, urging adherence to the original alignment of the Nagaland Foothill Road within its jurisdiction.
The 22 aggrieved villagers from Changpang and Bhandari circles expressed strong opposition to the newly proposed road alignment under the ongoing NFHR project. They reaffirmed their stance that the road should follow the previously agreed-upon alignment, which would benefit the majority of local residents.
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In support of the Lotha Hoho’s decision, the 22 villagers attended the meeting and firmly declared that they would not accept the proposed realignment.
During discussions, members of the Lotha Hoho highlighted the significance of the road project in advancing the welfare and interests of the Lotha community. Members of the Nagaland Foothill Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC) supplemented the discussion by recounting how the Foothill Road was conceptualized and eventually materialized after several attempts.
The meeting concluded with a resolution stating that no alternate realignment or deviation from the proposed road would be allowed, as it would negatively impact the affected Foothill stretch under Wokha district, particularly in the Bhandari and Changpang circles. The congregation unanimously endorsed this decision, warning that failure to acknowledge their position could lead to democratic agitation or, if necessary, a complete halt in Foothill Road construction across Wokha district.
The meeting was attended by the NFHRCC led by Convener Supu Jamir, along with 22 aggrieved villagers, chairmen, and representatives from the Lotha Hoho, Lotha Eloe Hoho, and Maraju (Merapani) Village Councils.
