Nagaland PWD (R&B) Minister G Kaito Aye and Advisor for Industries & Commerce Hekani Jakhalu inspect the ongoing Thilixu-Toulazouma road construction works on February 26. (Image Courtesy: @ @Hekani/X)
Appeals for cooperation on foothill road project
Morung Express News
Dimapur | February 26
Amid ongoing discussions over the signing of agreements for the Foothills road projects, Nagaland Public Works Department (Roads & Bridges) Minister G Kaito Aye today called for a cooperative and accommodative approach among various stakeholders to ensure the timely and efficient completion of road projects.
While inspecting the ongoing construction of the Thilixu-Toulazouma road, along with Advisor for Industries & Commerce Hekani Jakhalu, Aye reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring high-quality infrastructure for the state.
Speaking to the media, Aye assured the public of his dedication to accountability, quality control, and the successful completion of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) projects across Nagaland. He highlighted that Nagaland has been entrusted with the responsibility of 560 kilometers of PMGSY roads and remains committed to improving its road infrastructure despite existing challenges.
The minister expressed dissatisfaction with the underperformance of past road projects and stressed the importance of ensuring no compromises on quality moving forward, despite the program starting in 2001. However, he assured that there would be no compromise on the quality of road construction under PMGSY projects, which would be completed to the highest standards, potentially earning recognition from the Government of India (GoI).
Aye emphasized that engineers and technical teams working on these projects would be held accountable for any shortcomings or compromises in the execution of their tasks. Additionally, centralized monitoring from a Delhi-cadre officer at the rank of Joint Secretary will be in place. He urged the public to cooperate with the government and technical teams, emphasizing that public cooperation is essential for the smooth implementation of the projects.
Regarding the Foothill Road project, Aye acknowledged the role of the Nagaland Foothill Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC), which has been tasked with coordinating the completion of the Foothill Road—a long-awaited project for the 12 tribes of Nagaland. "We are pursuing with the Government of India to ensure this road is declared a national highway," Aye stated.
The minister also addressed challenges arising from the need to cross Assam in some parts of the proposed route, noting that Assam has cooperated by allowing the project to pass through its territory. He called for a collaborative approach to the project, urging the NFHRCC to work closely with the state department to ensure the construction meets agreed-upon specifications.
Aye also mentioned a bank guarantee system for contractors to ensure accountability. Under this system, contractors will be held responsible for the quality of their work, and their bank guarantee will be forfeited if they fail to meet the specifications.
The minister made it clear that any delays in the project or failure to meet the standards would result in the government taking responsibility. However, he emphasized the importance of cooperation from all parties involved and urged the NFHRCC to work with the department. He stressed that any issues or concerns should be addressed through open communication and mutual understanding.
In affirming his commitment to quality and accountability, the minister indicated that if the government fails to deliver on road projects, particularly the Foothill Road, on moral grounds, he might consider resigning.
Aye also addressed the issue of public accountability, emphasizing that while citizens have the right to point out deficiencies, constant criticism without constructive feedback is not beneficial.
Regarding funding and completion timelines, the minister acknowledged challenges in securing funding but assured that the government was committed to using available resources efficiently. He also mentioned the year-end financial assistance from the 16th Finance Commission, which will support municipal development and urban infrastructure projects in Nagaland.
Reiterating his commitment to improving the road sector, Aye expressed confidence that significant progress would be made in improving Nagaland’s road network over the next three years.
