Nagaland groups urge tunnel option for NH-702D realignment

The Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) has expressed solidarity with the Ao Senden regarding the proposed realignment of National Highway 702D (NH-702D). The organization is urging the Nagaland government to prioritize long-term public interest, technical feasibility, and road safety in its decision-making process.

Due to the Changki Village Council declining to issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the ‘Option-III’ route via British Road/Chungliyimsen, the AKM is calling for the government to seriously consider ‘Option-IV,’ which involves a tunnel alignment. The highway, spanning approximately 85 km and connecting Mokokchung with Mariani, is described as a strategic lifeline essential for trade, healthcare, education, and the movement of goods and people.

Additionally, the AKM emphasized the necessity of developing feeder roads to ensure that rural communities and grassroots populations can access the benefits of the highway project. The group has called for transparency and timely action to prevent further delays to the long-pending project.