The Office of the Commissioner in Nagaland has clarified the land acquisition process for road construction at CH 126, Tsiedukhru (Paglia Pahar) along National Highway 29. The land acquisition process was meticulously conducted following established norms and procedures. Key developments include a joint survey conducted in December 2024, submission of the proposal to the Government in February 2025, and the Tourism Department issuing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) in March 2025. The State Government submitted the approved proposal to NHIDCL’s Regional Office in Kohima in April 2025. Despite these developments, construction work has not yet commenced at CH 126, Tsiedukhru. The government remains committed to the timely and transparent execution of the project.
Nagaland Government
In response to growing public and media concern, the Government of Nagaland has officially clarified the status of land acquisition for the ongoing expansion of the National Highway-29 (NH-29) road project. This vital infrastructure initiative connects Dimapur to Kohima, two of the most important urban centres in the state, and forms a strategic part of the East-West Corridor under the Special Accelerated Road Development Programme for North Eastern Region (SARDP-NE). The clarification comes as a reassurance to affected landowners and stakeholders amid delays and compensation-related queries. (Road Transport)
Scope and Importance of the NH-29 Road Project
The NH-29 project involves widening and strengthening the existing two-lane highway into a four-lane corridor to improve road safety, reduce travel time, and support regional trade and connectivity. The highway also serves as a critical logistics route to border areas and is expected to bolster both civilian and defence mobility. The project is being executed under the supervision of the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL). Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)
(Road Transport)
Land Acquisition Status and Government Position
According to the Nagaland Public Works Department (PWD) and district authorities, land acquisition has been completed in several key stretches of the project, especially in Dimapur district. However, some sections have faced resistance or delay due to disputes over land ownership and compensation packages. The government clarified that due process has been followed under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and that compensation is being disbursed as per legal provisions.
Challenges on the Ground
The NH-29 project, like many large infrastructure developments in the Northeast, faces unique challenges such as hilly terrain, high rainfall, and fragmented landholding patterns. In some cases, local residents have expressed concerns about loss of farmland, lack of alternative livelihoods, and delays in disbursement of compensation. The state government has assured that grievance redressal mechanisms are in place, and affected families are being engaged through district-level consultations.
Impact on Connectivity and Local Economy
Once completed, the upgraded NH-29 will significantly improve interstate connectivity between Nagaland and Assam, and integrate Nagaland more deeply into the national economic grid. It will also benefit tourism, agriculture, and small businesses, as better roads lead to lower logistics costs and more opportunities for trade. The improved highway will further enhance access to the Kohima Smart City zone and upcoming logistics hubs in Dimapur.
The Nagaland government’s clarification aims to rebuild public trust and ensure smooth progress of the NH-29 project. With better coordination between state departments, NHIDCL, and the central government, the project is expected to meet its revised timelines. Continued public communication and transparent handling of land issues will be key to its successful completion. Stay updated with NH projects in the Northeast.
Q1. What is the NH-29 project in Nagaland?
It’s a highway expansion project connecting Dimapur to Kohima under SARDP-NE.
Q2. Why did the Nagaland government issue a clarification?
To address public concerns about land acquisition and compensation.
Q3. Has land acquisition been completed?
Partially—some sections are cleared, while others are still under process.
Q4. Who is executing the NH-29 project?
The project is being implemented by NHIDCL.
Q5. How will NH-29 benefit the region?
It will boost connectivity, trade, and reduce travel time between key cities.
