A joint inspection of nine work sites under the Baghty Division was carried out on Saturday by the Nagaland Foothills Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC), alongside representatives of Lotha Hoho, the Lotha Lower Range Public Organisation (LLRPO), the Yanmhon Area Public Organisation (YAPO), and village leaders. The visit formed part of an ongoing assessment of the multi-year Foothills Road project.
Speaking to the media after the inspection, NFHRCC Convenor Supu Jamir said that while progress on the bridges was “satisfactory,” the same could not be said of the earth-cutting works, which he described as lagging. He noted that although the internal deadline of December 18, 2025 remains technically reachable, it would require both the contractors and the department to intensify their efforts and, if needed, work round the clock.
One of the key issues highlighted by NFHRCC was the alleged deviation from the alignment jointly surveyed by the committee and the department in 2013. Jamir said the committee’s position on the approved route has not changed and raised concern that some landowners may have been misinformed. He added that there appeared to be confusion within the department itself in certain stretches. The LLRPO President has been requested to formally communicate these concerns to the department. NFHRCC has also indicated its readiness to meet officials directly to prevent further delays.
Lotha Hoho Secretary Limhathung Odyuo echoed these concerns, pointing out that although the initial cutting adhered to the original plan, the subsequent phase appeared to have diverted elsewhere. He stressed that the Foothills Road is meant to serve people across Nagaland and must therefore maintain its intended alignment.
Commenting on the performance of contractors, Jamir reminded that the work order explicitly sets the completion date for December 18, 2025. He remarked that at the current pace, several stretches may fall short of this timeline unless work is significantly expedited. He, however, expressed hope that the involvement of Lotha Hoho, LLRPO and YAPO leaders would help push the project forward.
He further explained that if contractors fail to complete their work on time, the procedures outlined in their agreement with the department will apply. The committee had earlier resolved that such contractors would not have their bills released and may be disqualified from participating in future phases.
NFHRCC General Secretary Chenithung Humtsoe also expressed mixed feelings optimistic yet uncertain about meeting the December 2025 target. He stressed that the public should not be let down and pointed out that Nagas deserve a reliable road within their own state.
Jamir additionally recalled that in 2013, when the project commenced, the department had sought NFHRCC’s help in identifying contractors. Though the committee initially felt it was not their responsibility, they later agreed, which led to the adoption of written undertakings to ensure transparency and accountability. This practice was recommended again for the current phase, but not all contractors cooperated.
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Amos Kikon, LLRPO President raised concerns regarding stones meant for culverts and hume pipes, stating that while they may suffice for foundations, they appear unsuitable for sidewall or protection works.
In a short internal review following the inspection, Lotha Hoho Secretary Odyuo remarked that the overall pace of the project appeared slow. He noted reports that some contractors had received partial payments even while certain stretches remained incomplete. He called upon the department and contractors to strengthen coordination and pick up speed.
LLRPO President Kikon commented that the pace was “too slow” and said the organisations involved would maintain a firm stand. He emphasised prioritising the two-lane portion and ensuring that the road becomes motorable by December, while underscoring that sub-standard workmanship would not be accepted.
The YAPO President also pledged full support to NFHRCC and encouraged the organisations to apply collective pressure to achieve long-awaited progress.
The NFHRCC later adopted two resolutions with the unanimous support of the Lotha Hoho, LLRPO and YAPO.
The committee would place priority on ensuring the materialisation of the two-lane construction along the Foothills Road.
No Foothills Road-related work within the Wokha area would proceed without the involvement and approval of the Foothills Road Committee.
