Kohima, Nagaland, March 6 (HBTV): Member of Nagaland Legislative Assembly Achumbemo Kikon has urged the Nagaland government to uphold procedural integrity in the ongoing Foothill Road issue, emphasizing that no negotiations or agreements should be entertained until the matter is examined by the Privilege Committee.

Addressing the Assembly, Kikon reminded the House that the Speaker had referred his submission to the committee, making any premature decisions sub judice. “It would be a miscarriage of justice to bypass due process,” he asserted.

Regarding the long-standing controversy surrounding the Foothill Road, Kikon noted that while arguments persist from both sides, a breakthrough has been reached, with almost all tribal hohos agreeing to supervise the matter.

He expressed satisfaction with the assurance given by Minister for Roads and Bridges, Kaito Aye, that the Kohima Bypass-Dimapur-Nuiland road—spanning 37.5 km—will be completed by March 31, 2026.  

According to the Detailed Project Report, this is the shortest route between Kohima and Dimapur. Although full payment for the project was earmarked for the 2022-23 financial year, delays have pushed back completion. Kikon stressed that the project is long overdue and must be expedited for public convenience.

In response, Minister Kaito Aye acknowledged the challenges but assured the House that all hurdles have now been cleared. He reaffirmed the department’s commitment to completing the project within the given timeline. Aye also highlighted his efforts in clearing backlogs since taking charge two years ago, assuring that he will not compromise on any ongoing projects.

With renewed commitments from the government, all eyes remain on the timely execution of the much-anticipated road project.