NPP Phek district demands immediate action on Kohima-Jessami Road crisis; Warns severe action

The National People’s Party (NPP), Phek District, has issued a strong condemnation of the Nagaland National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) for its “blatant disregard” for public suffering due to the deplorable condition of the Kohima-Jessami road, specifically the Chakhaba-Kikruma stretch (Package II).

“The people’s patience has worn thin, and we will not tolerate further negligence,” the NPP declared in a letter addressed to the General Manager (P), PMU Pfutsero, NHIDCL, outlining demands for immediate action: termination of the contract with the incompetent contractor, a call for a fresh tender, and the immediate commencement of road maintenance work.

“Failure to comply will prompt us to take severe action through democratic protests, demonstrations, or legal action against NHIDCL and the contractor,” they warned, asserting their determination to hold accountable those responsible for the suffering inflicted upon the community.

In the letter, the party highlighted the immense hardship faced by commuters due to the contractor’s inactivity and the authority’s negligence, which have led to significant damage and risk.

“Despite our frequent appeals and warnings, NHIDCL has demonstrated a callous disregard for human life and public safety,” the NPP stated. They emphasized that before the two-lane road project began, the vital road served its purpose well, albeit with minor repairs during the rainy season. However, they noted that “after the insincere implementation of this two-lane road programme, the road has been battered and has reduced the life of the people to a very dilapidated condition.”

The NPP referenced press statements dated May 8, 2024, and August 9, 2024, which explicitly highlighted the urgency and gravity of the situation. “Regrettably, NHIDCL has chosen to ignore our pleas, displaying a shocking lack of accountability and responsibility,” they added. Furthermore, they criticized NHIDCL for disregarding the Project Monitoring Group’s (PMG) recommendation to terminate the contractor’s contract, which has exacerbated the crisis.

MT