Unions oppose relocation of govt polytechnic Doyang

DIMAPUR, JUN 2 (NPN): All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) and Lotha Middle Range Students’ Union (LMRSU) have opposed the proposed temporary relocation of government polytechnic Doyang in Wokha district while urging the state government to address landslide threats through protective infrastructure rather than relocating the institution.
The two student unions maintained that relocation should be considered only as a last resort and warned that it could disrupt academic activities, create administrative complications and adversely affect the future growth of the institution. In an appeal to the chief minister, ANCSU president Kivika Yeptho and general secretary Sotilo Tep acknowledged concerns over recent landslides affecting portions of the campus but stressed that the institution’s safety could be ensured through preventive measures.
The union pointed out that government polytechnic Doyang was the only polytechnic in Nagaland offering a three-year diploma in architecture assistantship and played a vital role in technical and vocational education in the state.
ANCSU also stated that landslide situation may have been aggravated by continuous rainfall and the ongoing PMGSY Phase-III Doyang-Mangmetong road construction near the campus.
It appealed to the state government to prioritise the construction of retaining and breast walls, along with regular monitoring and maintenance of vulnerable areas, instead of pursuing relocation plans.
Meanwhile, LMRSU president Rhonbemo Murry and general secretary Renvungo Jami, in a representation to the director of technical education, said government polytechnic Doyang remained the only technical institution in Wokha district and served students from across Nagaland.
The union said the institution currently has an enrolment of 24 students, reflecting its growing importance.
LMRSU asserted that the landslide issue could be effectively addressed through the construction of retaining walls and other protective measures. It urged the department to assess the financial implications of temporary relocation against the cost of preventive infrastructure, contending that the latter would provide a more practical and long-term solution.