Kohima, May 1: The Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) has voiced strong opposition to the proposed installation of an advanced mountain radar system at Pfutsero under the Centre’s high-altitude defence programme, citing concerns over public safety, environmental impact and land rights.
In a statement issued on April 30, the organisation representing the Chakhesang community in Phek district questioned the transparency of the project, alleging that it was being pursued without adequate consultation or informed consent from local residents. The CPO stated that no detailed, location-specific safety assessments had been made public, particularly regarding long-term exposure to electromagnetic radiation.
The organisation further expressed concern over the absence of clearly defined safety standards, including benchmarks for radiation exposure and designated buffer zones around the proposed installation. It maintained that the lack of independently verified information has raised uncertainty among residents about the potential health implications of the project.
Highlighting environmental risks, the CPO noted that Pfutsero and its surrounding areas are ecologically sensitive and largely dependent on agriculture. It warned that large-scale defence infrastructure could disrupt biodiversity, affect water sources, destabilise land conditions and threaten livelihoods and food security in the region.
The tribal body also raised apprehensions about possible restrictions on land use and civilian movement, stating that such projects often result in controlled zones that limit access to residential and agricultural areas. It criticised the state government for allegedly allowing the proposal to advance without sufficient engagement with the local population, describing the process as a breach of public trust.
Reiterating its stance, the organisation demanded that the radar installation be relocated outside Nagaland, preferably to less sensitive or uninhabited locations. It also cautioned that any attempt to proceed with the project in its current form would be met with firm, democratic and united resistance from the community.
