Four-lane: APO alarmed by ‘environmental devastation’

Dimapur, Nov. 11 (EMN): The Angami Public Organisation (APO) has expressed concern over what it has stated as “massive environmental devastation” caused by the construction – and ‘earth-cutting’ works – of the four-lane highway connecting Dimapur and Kohima.
The community organisation issued a press release on Saturday raising concern over said development. “While the effort of developing the highway is appreciated, regretfully the process of its construction seemed to have been undertaken without considerations of environmental impact causing total chaos. The ramification of callous and horrendous nature of implementing the project is endangering the public.
“The concerned firm and the government agency are cautioned that compromising public lives and properties cannot be tolerated at any cost. As such, measures must be initiated by them effective immediately to mitigate the dismal situation under which the process of construction is undergoing. In connection to this, we are pleased to see the ongoing process of highway construction which is carried out competently and effectively between PHQ junction to New Police Reserve, Phesama by a local contractor without disrupting public convenience,” the statement read.
The APO also announced that ‘no protest, agitations or disruptions” would be allowed during this festive seasonal period. “This is declared so keeping in mind the interest and welfare of our society. The upcoming International Hornbill Festival will witness both International and domestic tourists to our state.
“At the same time, Christmas and New Year festive season will also see people from all walks of life especially simple villagers to do their shopping for this valued season. Therefore, we must open our hearts and our hearths to our visitors without any disruptions. We trust that this call would be heeded without any malice and extend cooperation for the benefit of all,” it stated.