DMC to resume demolition drive

As part of the ongoing demolition drive against encroachment for construction of drains,footpath and expansion of roads, the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) will restart the third-phase demolition from August 18.
This was disclosed at a meeting held in the Town Hall here Tuesday where representatives of of various organizations,such as- Naga Council Dimapur, NSF, DNSU, GBs, Naga Women Hoho, tribal units and public leaders attended the consultative meeting convened by DMC.
It was also agreed that the DMC will issue prior notification to the public before the demolition drive.
By and large, many expressed appreciation to the proclaimed objective of the DMC towards beautification of Dimapur city though the common demand was, that the same yardstick should be applied to all. The DMC was also urged to give sufficient time to those who would be affected by demolition of properties.
The House also felt, that a master plan should be drawn up and implemented through mutual understanding and free will contribution from the public. It was also pointed out that the DMC take up development works such as providing proper drainage system and footpaths immediately after demolition.
Further, the house also asked the DMC to request the State government to issue land patta only after proper and thorough verification.
On traffic congestion in Church Road and Holy Cross junction road, DMC chairperson Khekaho Assumi said minister for Roads & Bridges had surveyed the area earlier. He also disclosed that the chief minister had sanctioned Rs. 9.5 lakh for construction of culverts, drainage and retaining walls.
President, Naga Council, Savi Legise, suggested negotiation and diplomatic approach with citizens before demolition in order to maintain understanding between the public and the civic body.
Pointing out that construction of drainage should be carried out alongside demolition, former NSF president Pushika Awomi asked the DMC as to what plans it had for drainage system. He also said such developmental activities should be carried out only on “legal basis.”
DMC member Nungsang Jamir said drainage construction was an expensive exercise which the DMC cannot undertake alone, but assured it will immediately construct footpaths.
Khekaho expressed gratitude to representatives of various bodies for their cooperation and suggestions towards the next demolition drive.