DIMAPUR: The Sub-Divisional Development Board (SDPDB) Bhandari convened its meeting on September 16 at the Community Health Centre (CHC), Bhandari to deliberate on key developmental issues, including healthcare infrastructure, road connectivity, public safety, power supply upgradation and livestock health.
According to a DIPR report, the meeting was chaired by ADC and vice chairman of SDPDB Bhandari, Longasen Lotha, who welcomed new members and reviewed the minutes of the previous meeting.
Medical Officer (Ayush), Dr. Lydia, delivered a PowerPoint presentation detailing the performance status of the Bhandari Medical Block, which covers 56 villages and CHC Bhandari, which serves 7 villages. Highlighting the healthcare services delivered and the challenges faced over the past year, Dr. Lydia emphasized that CHC Bhandari serves as a critical First Referral Unit for a large rural population. She stressed the urgent need for adequate manpower, particularly specialists and the house reiterated the immediate requirement to post a Senior Medical Officer (SMO) to replace a recently transferred officer.
The board also discussed replacing old water pipelines to ensure an improved and adequate water supply for the health centre.
President of the Lotha Lower Range Public Organization (LLRPO) and Additional Director of Health and Family Welfare (Rtd), Dr. Khonsao Alex, highlighted the severe road hazards faced by Longayim, Mekirang and Lio Longchum villages due to monsoon rains. He proposed a collective financial contribution from MLA and advisor for SCERT & Food Processing (who also serves as the chairman of SDPDB Bhandari), Achumbemo Kikon, alongside Bhandari-based heads of departments. The funds will be used to repair a 5-kilometre stretch from Merapani to make it a jeepable road.
Addressing security concerns, president of the Yanmhon Area Public Organization (YAPO), N. Thungdemo Tungoe, apprised the house of the current status of the Yanmhon area Police Out-Post at Ruchan village. A representation letter was submitted proposing a temporary site allocation for the Out-Post until a permanent facility is established by the Government of Nagaland.
He noted that logistical arrangements had already been secured following a joint meeting between YAPO and the Ruchan Village Council on September 11.
Reviewing the sub-division’s power infrastructure, Junior Engineer (JE) Power Bhandari, Er. Mhaden Murry, thanked the district administration, government departments and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) for supporting the department’s infrastructure upscaling, including the installation of distribution transformers. He appealed for continued public cooperation during jungle clearance activities to maintain unhindered power lines. Er. Murry also noted challenges regarding a shortage of manpower and the lack of a pool vehicle for staff transportation. The house further debated the feasibility of upgrading the existing power supply from 11KV to 33KV for the Yanmhon area, which covers 20 villages. ADC Longasen Lotha directed YAPO public leaders to collaborate closely with the power department to conduct a comprehensive land survey for this upgradation project.
Veterinary Assistant Surgeon (VAS) at the Merapani Check Post, Dr. Kikali G. Sumi, informed the board of pig mortalities in Merapani village. Swine tissue samples sent to the State ELISA Laboratory in Kohima on September 2, 2026, tested positive for African Swine Fever (ASF). A total of 10 pig deaths have been linked to the outbreak. Dr. Sumi stated that local farmers have been actively sensitized on the proper disposal and burial of carcasses to prevent further transmission.
Lead Bank Manager of Wokha District, Chophathung Yanthan, provided an overview of the current operations, deposits and advances across local banking institutions. Concluding the session, the ADC informed the house that the next SDPDB meeting will be hosted at the Government Higher Secondary School, Bhandari.
