KOHIMA, NOVEMBER 22 (MExN): The Kohima Deputy Commissioner, B. Henok Buchem, has issued two separate orders aimed at improving public safety, urban aesthetics and environmental standards in the district- one directing the removal of loosely hanging overhead cables and pipes, and another mandating the covering of construction sites to curb dust, debris and noise pollution.
In the first order, the DC said unused and loosely hanging overhead cables and pipes were diminishing the city’s aesthetic appeal while posing electrical, fire and safety hazards. Such installations, he said, also obstruct emergency operations, heighten risks during natural disasters, impede the movement of heavy vehicles and endanger pedestrians in the event of a fall or breakage.
All telecommunications firms, internet service providers, cable TV operators, water supply agencies and other concerned entities in the district have been directed to remove all redundant and unused cables and pipes within seven days from November 21. Active overhead cables and pipes must be bundled, sleeved and securely fastened as per approved technical standards within the same period. Non-compliant installations will be removed by the competent authority at the expense of the defaulting entity.
In a separate order, the DC said dust and debris from uncovered building construction sites were contributing to air pollution, while excessive noise from construction activities and risks from falling tools, equipment or structural failures posed threats to public safety.
To address this, all construction firms, agencies and individuals undertaking building activities in Kohima have been instructed to cover their sites using perimeter hoarding, debris netting, scaffold shrink-wrap, Monarflex sheeting or equivalent protective measures. Any harm caused to public property, human life or livestock due to negligence will attract strict penalties under relevant laws.
