EMN
DIMAPUR, APRIL 13
T R Zeliang, the Chief Minister of Nagaland called on Venkaiah Naidu, Union Minister for Urban Development in his office, accompanied by R.Tohanba, Parliamentary Secretary, Municipal Affairs Department on April 12 and discussed and explained the Kohima Smart City project proposal, and how the case of Kohima is important from the angle of India’s Act East Policy, and how Kohima commands a strategic position for India-ASEAN road and rail connectivity, as clearly demonstrated by the Battle of Kohima during World War II.
According to the Chief Minister’s Office, TR Zeliang pleaded for continued funding from AMRUT for the completion of some on-going projects, such as the Cultural Hall and the two multi-level car parking complex at Kohima. The Union Minister promised to consider favourably the case of Kohima provided the criteria are met substantially.
Later in the day, the Chief Minister called on Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways in his office, accompanied by Nuklotoshi, Minister for National Highways and I. Himato Zhimomi, Commissioner and Secretary, Works and Housing, Nagaland. Amongst others, the Chief Minister asked the Union Minister to expedite implementation and completion of the following projects:(i) NH-61 (NH-2) Upgradation of Kohima-Mokokchung road from 40 km to 72 km (between Botsa to Wokha section).
(ii) NH-29 Four laning of Dimapur city and Kohima city sections.
(iii) Urgent payment of land compensation for Dimapur bypass section of NH-29 from Lahorigan to Patkai junction.
(iv) Need for early commencement of the four laning project of NH-29 from Dimapur to Kohima.
The Union Minister promised early and positive action on all the above points. On the issues of four laning of Dimapur- Kohima road, the Union Minister said that the work order had already been issued to two selected firms and commencement of work is expected any moment, the CMO said.
