Nagaland students issue ultimatum over NH-29 road project delays

The Chakhesang Students Union (CSU) has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) regarding significant delays in the NH-29 Kohima-Jessami road project. The student organization has demanded the termination of the current contractor, M/S Ratna Infrastructure Projects Pvt Ltd, and called for fresh tendering.

As part of their protest, the CSU sealed the contractor’s base camp at North Kikruma in the Phek district of Nagaland. The union alleges that despite an extension granted by NHIDCL that expired on September 24, the contractor has only completed 44.30% of the work. The CSU claims the company has failed to provide sufficient machinery, labor, and maintenance, leading to deplorable road conditions and increased accidents.

The highway serves as a vital lifeline for residents in the Phek, Meluri, and Kiphire districts of Nagaland, as well as parts of Manipur. The CSU warned that if their demands are not met, they will initiate a total highway blockade starting September 30.