Kohima, April 13: Fifteen tribal hohos in Nagaland have extended their support to the proposal for upgrading the long-awaited Foothills Road into a two-lane National Highway, describing the move as a significant step toward improving connectivity, promoting economic growth, and enhancing transportation infrastructure across the state.
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| Doyang Bridge construction site in Wokha district. (File Photo) |
In a joint statement issued by Dr. Vihuto Asumi on behalf of the 15 tribal bodies, the hohos welcomed the outcome of the consultative meeting held on April 7 at the Capital Convention Centre, Kohima. The meeting was convened by the Government of Nagaland through the National Highways Department and the Public Works Department (Roads and Bridges) to discuss the future course of the Foothills Road project.
The tribal organizations said the consensus achieved during the meeting marked a major breakthrough in advancing one of Nagaland’s most important infrastructure projects. They noted that the Foothills Road has long been viewed as a strategic alternative route that could improve connectivity between several districts, reduce dependence on existing highways, and facilitate easier movement of people and goods throughout the state.
Expressing their appreciation for the efforts made by the state government and all stakeholders involved, the tribal leaders reaffirmed their strong support for the proposal to upgrade the road into a two-lane National Highway. They emphasized that such an upgrade would not only improve transportation facilities but also contribute significantly to economic development, trade, tourism, and regional integration.
The hohos urged the Government of Nagaland to take immediate steps to expedite the necessary proposals and pursue the matter vigorously with the Government of India. According to the tribal bodies, the consensus reached among stakeholders should now be translated into concrete action to ensure that the project moves forward without further delay.
Recognizing that land acquisition remains one of the key challenges in implementing major infrastructure projects, the tribal organizations assured their full cooperation in facilitating the process. They stated that they would engage constructively with landowners and local communities to ensure that any land acquisition required for the project is carried out smoothly, transparently, and in a mutually acceptable manner.
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At the same time, the hohos appealed to the Nagaland Foothill Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC) to exercise patience and provide the state government with reasonable time to complete the required formalities and pursue approval from the Centre.
The tribal bodies also stressed the importance of maintaining constructive dialogue among all stakeholders. They urged both the state government and the coordination committee to continue engaging in discussions and work together toward an amicable understanding in the larger interest of the people of Nagaland.
The Foothills Road project has long been considered a crucial infrastructure initiative for the state, and the support extended by the 15 tribal hohos is expected to strengthen efforts toward securing national highway status and accelerating its implementation. If completed, the project is expected to bring lasting benefits by improving connectivity, boosting economic opportunities, and enhancing overall development across Nagaland.
