Landowners hurdles to development: Rio

Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio pointed out that the biggest hurdle against development in the state are landowners and cited the four-lane project from Dimapur to Kohima, widening of other roads including the proposed railway line construction from Dimapur to Zubza.

Addressing the  ‘special District Planning and Development Board’ of Kohima at the Zonal Council Hall Tuesday, Rio admitted that the government could do little in such matters since land and resources belonged to the people.

In this regard, he urged upon government officers, public and administrators to put their heads together in working out the best possible way for development in the state.

Rio said ministers and MLAs cannot work miracles for development unless public contribute their mite for a vibrant and progressive society. He said public should be educated to respect the law and not to blame others  as in the case with the prohibition. He said prohibition can only be successful if individuals obey the law.      

He urged upon people of Kohima to be more responsible as citizens and to create a conducive atmosphere so that it would attract people from other places to live in Kohima. He said people have to decide whether to advance or remain backward.

Rio urged upon the urban development department to prepare a blue print for Kohima.    
 
Expressing concern over unemployment, Rio said government alone cannot be the sole employer. He disclosed that  despite having created 26,000 jobs in the recent years unemployment remains a concern. The only way was for industrial and entrepreneurial activities  and in this regard, Rio called upon DPDB officials to work on how to meet the growing challenges.

Deputy Commissioner Kohima W. Honje Konyak in his opening address congratulated to all the seven elected members of Kohima district and also highlighted the activities and achievements of the Kohima DPDB. He spoke on need for proper garbage disposal, easing traffic congestion, widening of roads and development of parking areas in the capital. 

Newly appointed chairman Kohima DPDB and advisor MTF Khriehu Liezietsü thanked the government and his constituents for giving him the opportunity to take up new responsibilities. Khriehu assured that he would work with transparency to deliver the goods to people   and at the same time sought cooperation and support of the people to finish the task.

Others who also spoke included- Kiyanilie Peseyie(minister Social Welfare); Dr Nicky Kire(Parl.Secy law & Justice); Vikho-o Yoshü(Parl.Secy Housing);  Er. Kropol Vitsu( I&PR) and Er. Levi rRengma.  CEO of  KMC  Elizabeth Ngully and Kohima SP R. Tsetso also joined in discussion at the end of the session. The programme was chaired by DC Kohima while ADC Planning proposed vote of thanks.