Thirteen Naga tribes in Dimapur have set a March 31 deadline for issuing phase-II work orders for the Foothills Road project, warning of democratic protests.
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DIMAPUR — Thirteen Naga tribes based in Dimapur have issued an ultimatum to the state government, warning that they will resort to “all democratic means” if the second-phase work order for the Foothills Road project is not issued on or before March 31.
In a joint representation addressed to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the tribal hohos recalled the government’s long-standing commitment to the Foothills Road and stressed that any further delay would be unacceptable.
The conglomerate pointed out that the Foothills Road, initiated in 2013, spans 395.9 km from Tizit in Mon district to Khelma in Peren district, passing through eight districts and more than 200 villages.
They also highlighted that under the chief minister’s patronage, the first phase of the two-lane road under the SASCI loan scheme is nearing completion.
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Urging immediate intervention, the tribes appealed to the Nagaland PWD (Roads & Bridges) to expedite issuance of work orders for the remaining divisions under phase-II before the March 31 deadline.
They also recalled assurances made earlier by the minister in charge of PWD (Roads & Bridges), who had publicly stated that he would not hesitate to relinquish his portfolio if the project failed.
However, the tribes expressed concern that despite the expiry of the stipulated 12-month period in December 2025, contractor firms—M/s JK Constructions and M/s Chabou & Co—particularly in the Baghty division, failed to deliver work as per quality and progress norms.
Following sustained pressure, the department issued show-cause notices to the firms on February 4, 2026. The minister subsequently visited the project sites on February 7, citing communication gaps for the lapses and setting March 31 as the final deadline for completion.
The tribal bodies cautioned that failure to complete works—especially in Baghty division—within the extended deadline would deal a serious blow to the “people’s project” and erode public confidence.
They maintained that while there was no intention to single out any department or individual, accountability in a democratic system ultimately rests with the department concerned and its leadership.
Reiterating their stand, the tribes warned that any further delay beyond March 31 would compel them to intensify democratic protests until their demand is fulfilled.