The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) has directed all its affiliated units and subordinate bodies to remain prepared for further action after the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) failed to respond to its 14-day ultimatum over the delayed completion of Package-II of the Kohima–Jessami road project.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the CSU said the ultimatum served to NHIDCL on June 2 expired on June 15 without any positive response from the corporation.
The union said NHIDCL’s continued silence reflected a “blatant disregard for public concerns” and raised serious apprehensions that the grievances of the people were being ignored.
The CSU had demanded immediate cancellation of the Extension of Time (EOT) granted to the EPC contractor, M/s Ratna Infra Project Private Limited, and sought immediate restoration and maintenance of the road and drainage system, particularly with the onset of the monsoon season.
It had also warned that NHIDCL would be held fully responsible for inconveniences faced by commuters arising from poor road maintenance.
Reiterating that it would not compromise on issues affecting public welfare, the union said it would continue its pursuit of accountability until its demands are addressed and concrete action is taken by the authorities concerned.
The CSU has instructed its affiliated units and subordinate bodies to be ready to respond to any call issued by the union, including democratic protests and other lawful forms of agitation.
According to the union, Package-II of the NH-29 two-lane project, being executed by M/s Ratna Infra Project Private Limited, was scheduled for completion on January 4, 2026, a deadline reportedly assured by the contractor in May 2025. However, NHIDCL subsequently granted an extension of time to the contractor until September 2026.
The CSU alleged that more than three months after the original completion deadline, the condition of the road remains deplorable and continues to pose difficulties for commuters. It further claimed that the machinery, manpower and resources deployed at the project site were inadequate.
USSC backs CSU demand
Meanwhile, the United Sangtam Students’ Conference (USSC) has extended its support to the CSU’s demand for the timely completion of the project.
In a separate statement, the apex students’ body of the Sangtam community described the Kohima–Jessami road as a lifeline for Kiphire district and several other regions of Nagaland and said prolonged delays had caused immense hardship to students, patients, traders, government employees and the general public.
The USSC endorsed the CSU’s demands and urged NHIDCL and the contractor to take immediate steps to restore, maintain and expedite completion of the project.