Nagaland Commissioner sets record straight on NH-29 land acquisition

DIMAPUR — The Commissioner of Nagaland has clarified that land acquisition process for road construction at CH 126, Tsiedukhru (Pagla Pahar) along NH-29 was meticulously followed as per established norms and procedures.

Reacting to news reports over land acquisition process, the commissioner’s office, in a press release, sought to present the accurate chronological sequence of events and the current status of the project.

According to the commissioner’s office, a joint survey for land acquisition was conducted on December 13, 2024, and proposal for land acquisition (LA) was submitted to the government on February 10, 2025.

The Tourism department issued its no objection certificate (NOC) for LA on March 25, 2025, while the state government submitted its approved proposal on April 11to the executive director (P), NHIDCL, RO Kohima.

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When the NHIDCL, PMU-Dimapur raised an objection to the acquisition of government (Tourism department) land and PHED estimates for utility shifting on May 22, the DC Chümoukedima submitted a clarification and furnished a revised PHED estimate.

In view of the upcoming monsoon, a joint meeting was held on May 20, where it was decided to issue NOC to the NHIDCL for carrying out construction works.

Subsequently, DC Chümoukedima issued the NOC on the same day, allowing the NHIDCL to start construction works at CH 126.

“Compensation for land acquisition was received on 02.07.2025. This includes 100% compensation amount for the Tourism department (Land cost and forest damages) and 80% of the amount for utility shifting for PHED.

“Accordingly, payments were made to both PHED and Tourism department. EE PHED, Urban Division Dimapur issued clearance to NHIDCL to commence work for hill cutting at CH 126,” it stated.

However, construction works have not yet started at CH 126, Tsiedukhru (Pagla Pahar).

“This office requests all stakeholders and the public to refer to accurate information and avoid speculation. The government remains committed to the timely and transparent execution of this vital infrastructure project,” it added.