Sanitation vehicles distributed to ULBs
Urban Development and Municipal Affairs adviser Zhaleo Rio has disclosed that the state government was considering a partial lifting of the ban on toll gates, but only at strategic locations and under strict regulation.
Interacting with the media on the sideline of a programme held to hand over sanitation vehicles to urban local bodies (ULBs) at Chümoukedima public ground on Wednesday, Zhaleo said while the state government had earlier enforced a blanket ban on toll gates, consultations with higher authorities had opened up the possibility for a partial and strategic lift of the ban on toll gates.
However, he emphasised that even if the ban was lifted, it would be done with proper regulations in place, but refused to provide a specific timeline.
Asked about the poor road conditions in and around Dimapur, he claimed that the government had been undertaking road repairs, though he acknowledged that some areas required complete reconstruction.
Referring to the road stretch from Clock Tower to DC office along Tajen Ao Road, he said the construction work was scheduled to start, but got delayed due to unfavorable weather conditions.
He clarified that the road stretch from Dilai Gate to Dhobinala fell under the National Highway, and that it was not the responsibility of the Urban Development Department (UDD).
He however said that roads under UDD’s jurisdiction were being prioritised for maintenance. As the department received a meagre amount, which made it difficult to undertake road repairs, Zhaleo said he had met chief minister Neiphiu Rio over the matter and requested him for more funds.
Asked whether there were plans to re-consider the proposal of constructing a flyover in Dimapur, he described the proposed flyover as “the need of the hour”, stating that discussions were ongoing with the chief minister to secure funds for the project.
Responding to queries about the continued use of single-use plastic bottles, especially at government programmes, despite a ban, he mentioned that bottling companies had requested a grace period to dispose of existing stock, to which that the state government had agreed to a limited extension after careful consideration, but asserted that no further extensions would be granted.
Asked about his views on being involved in social media with regard to Swachata Hi Seva campaign, he remarked, “The leader has to lead from the front”.
Earlier, delivering his speech as the chief guest at the programme, Zhaleo made a strong appeal for Nagas to embrace cleanliness and the dignity of labor. He lamented that while the Nagas had high literacy rate, road nice cars, were up-to-date with the latest fashion, etc, they lacked cleanliness and hygiene. He noted that they had also become very confined and narrow minded. But, he stressed that if they did not maintain cleanliness and did not follow proper hygiene, others would not consider them civilised.
He mentioned that the ULBs were selected for distribution of sanitation vehicles based on their needs, adding that the ULBs receiving the vehicles would be responsible for maintaining them.
He also stressed that the ULBs must generate their own revenue, and not rely solely on state and central grants. Noting that some ULBs had been diligently following department guidelines, the adviser reminded them to adhere to the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2023 too.
He also called upon the elected councilors to act on the trust and responsibility reposed on them by the people, and stay true to their promises.
He also reminded them that the state government had every power to call them to the head office along with their records for scrutiny.
He emphasised that it was the responsibility of all citizens, and not just the state government, to keep the urban areas clean.
Delivering the keynote address, Municipal Affairs and Urban Development commissioner and secretary Kekhrievor Kevichusa disclosed that the distribution of sanitation vehicles was part of a pilot project.
He said all the vehicles were procured from the awards received from the 15th Finance Commission, describing it a small step for the ULBs to keep the municipalities clean.
He stressed that proper auditing of ULB funds was crucial for future funding, underscoring that all expenditure statements should have bills.
He said the department was introducing electric sanitation vehicles for the first time, with more to be used for public services, adding that the department would be supplying more vehicles in the near future.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Temjenrenla Kechü, joint director and head of department of the Directorate of Municipal Affairs, while invocation was offered by Rev Khrielie.
Short messages were also delivered on the occasion by Chümoukedima Town Council chairperson Lhusito Khr, East Dimapur Town Council chairman Niuto Awomi, and Chiephobozpu Town Council deputy chairperson Kekhrieneinuo Zumvu.