Western Sümi Students’ Union raises alarm over gas pipeline project in its areas

DIMAPUR — The Western Sümi Students’ Union (WSSU) has expressed concern over the ongoing gas pipeline project by Indradhanush Gas Grid Limited (IGGL), which passes through areas inhabited by the Western Sümi community.

In a press statement issued on Saturday, the student body informed that the construction of the pipeline is nearing completion but opposed its implementation in the current form.

The union alleged that the project has been carried out without proper consultation, transparency, or adequate awareness for the affected landowners and the general public.

Highlighting reports of gas pipeline bursts across the country, which have resulted in casualties and property loss, the WSSU argued that the authorities must take such incidents seriously, especially before commissioning a major project in a vulnerable area.

One of the key concerns flagged was the lack of consultation with landowners and local communities. The WSSU claimed that residents were neither informed about the full scope of the project nor made aware of the associated risks and safety measures.

The student body also flagged safety concerns, pointing out that the Western Sümi region falls within Seismic Zone V—a high-risk earthquake-prone area.

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“There is no assurance that future natural disasters will not cause ruptures, leaks, or explosions, potentially leading to serious harm to life, property, and the environment,” the statement read.

The WSSU stressed that development should not compromise safety. While expressing support for development initiatives in principle, the union maintained that human life and community welfare must take precedence over commercial interests.

Another major concern raised was the impact on the environment and local livelihoods. The land affected by the pipeline is central to the community’s agricultural and cultural practices, it stated, adding that any disaster could leave lasting damage on both the land and people.

The Western Sümi Students’ Union also criticised IGGL for failing to provide public assurances, including clarity on emergency protocols, compensation plans in case of disaster, and safety audit mechanisms.

While acknowledging that landowners were compensated for the use of their land, the WSSU asserted that compensation alone does not justify ignoring broader safety obligations.

“Compensation for land cannot and must not be used as an excuse to ignore the potential dangers posed to the general public living in the surrounding areas,” it asserted.

The union went on to state that it would continue to oppose the project until proper consultations are held and safety measures are publicly documented. It urged the IGGL, the Nagaland government, and authorities concerned to ensure transparency, accountability, and public engagement.

Clarifying its stance, the union said that it is not against development but maintained that progress should not come at the cost of public safety and rights.

It cautioned the IGGL to halt all work in the area, warning that any continuation of the project without addressing these concerns would be “at their own risk.”