DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 18 (MExN): The Maytas-Gayatri (JV) Damaged Victim Association (MGDVA) under Chozuba, Phek district has demanded that compensation for properties damaged under Zunheboto-Chakhabama road (under Phek district) and Phek-Pfutsero road be released to the beneficiaries without any further delay.
In a representation addressed to the Chief Engineer, PWD (National Highway), the Association said nearly a decade of “colossal and reckless destruction caused by Maytas-Gayatri during 2 laning road construction has displaced entire human habitation alongside road and permanently ruined massive cultivated and cultivable land above and much worse below the road running down 3 km or more thereby turning vast stretch of agricultural land into dumping ground and landslide zone.”
It claimed that several thousands of families have been deprived of basic livelihood and pitifully depending on BPL Rice or charity alone for survival till date while adding that substantial number of affected families migrated elsewhere and their children discontinued education for years together.
While the physical assessment of the damage by competent authority and submission of compensation list to appropriate authority is self explanatory and need no further elaboration, the Association said despite repeated appeal by individuals and affected villages to release their due compensation, there has been no positive response or assurance.
It also reminded that since the state department, PWD (NH) had supervised the execution of 2 laning road construction in the state; it is under obligation to ensure timely payment of compensation.
Whereas NHIDCL could readily pay their portion of 30% for uncut areas/structures, the long delay and uncertainty of Maytas-Gayatri(JV)/GOI to pay their portion of about 70% for cut areas/damaged structures have become highly questionable, it stated.
The Association has cautioned that in the event of failing to release or at least assure payment of compensation in time bound manner, thousand of aggrieved community may march out to the road on protest any day and that may even disrupt the ongoing 2 laning road construction.
In this connection, the Association has served a 15 day deadline to provide a written assurance for full payment of Rs 51,12,66,695.34 for Zunheboto-Chakhabama road (under Phek district) and Rs 5,81,69,989.70 for Phek-Pfutsero road within specified time frame failing which the aggrieved community may resort to further course of action deemed fit.
