ZCNEI gives clarion call to back NH-137 project
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 25 2024: Zeme Council Northeast India (ZCNEI) has extended its support for construction of the Tamenglong-Mahur road project along the NH-137, and urged all concerned to ensure execution of the project without any disruptions.

The apex Zeme body lauded all landowners who generously issued No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the construction of the road even in the absence of compensation.

"By prioritising the road over land compensation, you have demonstrated remarkable selflessness, recognising the critical importance of this road for the well-being of our people living in the most treacherous road conditions in Tousem areas," it said.

The Council also commended the department s administrators for their tireless efforts to transform into reality the long-held aspirations of the people of Tousem.

According to the Council, Tousem denizens have endured the most appalling road conditions since time immemorial, resulting in the loss of numerous lives.

"Even today, residents are forced to carry the sick person on bamboo stretchers to the district hospital.

The absence of a proper road has impeded the functioning of the sub-divisional headquarters, including healthcare centre and SDO office," it said, adding that many people live below the poverty line due to these circumstances.

Claiming that Tousem sub-division has the most deplorable road conditions compared to the rest of India's sub-divisions, it stated: "Given these challenges, the people of Tousem have prioritised the construction of the road over land compensation.

We trust that the generous landowners who provided NOC will uphold their commitment" .

While citing instances where some groups are trying to disrupt the work, by claiming compensation, despite having provided NOC two years ago, ZCNEI emphasised that trustworthiness is vital for the human development and community growth.

"This road is a people's project, brought about by the people themselves, with every household having signed in support of the road without compensation," it reminded.

The Council further appealed to all organisations and individuals to refrain from disrupting the ongoing construction of the Tamen-glong-Mahur Road (NH-137), stating that the road plays a pivotal role in integrating the Zeliangrong people and the broader Naga community living in Assam, Nagaland, and Manipur.

The road will also generate revenue and drive socio-economic development in our region, it noted.

At the same time, ZCNEI also urged the construction agencies to maintain quality, sincerity, and dedication in their work, for the project's timely completion, and reminded the agencies to initiate the construction of subsidy roads/spark roads, as initially agreed upon, to satisfy the needs of the local population.

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