Reiterating its opposition to the proposed gas pipeline along NH-29, the Chakhroma Youth Organization (CYO) at a joint consultative meeting with the concerned villages where the gas pipeline is to be installed, at Medziphema town on September 25, 2023, has reaffirmed the decision not to allow the installation of gas pipeline within its jurisdiction.
According to a joint press release, the meeting further reiterated the stand that CYO would be the only mandated organisation to forward the grievances of the affected landowners.
The meeting noted that multiple incidents occurred across the country in various states resulting in bursting of gas pipeline, which led to loss of lives and properties despite all the safety measure.
The meeting expressed apprehension that introduction of gas pipeline project along NH-29 would endanger the lives of the people as there were many villages along the stretch of NH-29.
Moreover, they said there were many areas prone to landslide, mudslide, rockslide/ falls etc along Chümoukedima-Piphema stretch.
They also took note of National Centre for Seismology (NCS) data that Nagaland was in the Seismic Zone-V vulnerable for major earthquakes. They expressed apprehension that a major catastrophic event could happen at any time. The signatories said that gas pipeline could be for the greater convenience of gas market and the economy.
However, they maintained that the project has its demerits and draw backs beyond reasonable doubt, which could lead to loss of lives and properties “even on a slightest mishap or technical breakdown.”
Therefore, the meeting unanimously decided that it was not feasible to install the gas pipeline within the jurisdiction of Chakhroma. Urging IGGL contractor to refrain from doing any developmental activities, the signatories warned that the contractor would be held entirely responsible for any untoward incidents.
The signatories included CYO president Seyieneilhou Keyho, general secretary Visielhoulie Kuotsu, Medziphema village chairman Akho Kuotsu, Medziphema Town Mechü Krotho president Akhoto Kuotsu, Seithekema ‘A’ Village Council chairman Kelengulie Khro, New Chümoukedima Village Council chairman S. Bao Hama, Seithekema ‘C’ Village Council chairman Pelhoubeilie Thepa, Pehrima A chairman Kawoto Zhimomi, Pherima B chairman Tohuvi Zhimomi, Tsiepama Model Village Council chairman Pelevito Kuotsu, Chümoukedima Village Council chairman Sedevikho T Angami, Khuokhidolong Village Council chairman Viloto Zhimomi, Piphema Khenu Krüta Krotho president Pelezeto Kuotsu and New Medziphema Village Council chairman Visielie Angami.