The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) has demanded immediate termination of the EPC contractor, M/s Ratna Infrastructure Projects Pvt. Ltd., and fresh tendering of the balance work on NH-29 Kohima-Jessami Road Package-II, citing prolonged delay and continued deterioration of the road.
In a representation to the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, the CSU said the 21.90-km Package-II stretch from near Kidwema Road, Chakhabama, to near Kikruma village was awarded to Ratna Infrastructure on October 10, 2023, with the original completion deadline set for January 4, 2026.
According to the CSU, despite the deadline and subsequent extension of time granted by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL) up to September 24, 2026, the project remained incomplete, with overall progress at only around 44 percent.
The union said it had earlier approached the authorities seeking intervention over the condition of the road and had also signed a six-point agreement with NHIDCL and the contractor on June 22, 2026, aimed at facilitating completion of the project.
However, the CSU alleged that the contractor continued to fall short in deploying adequate machinery and labour and failed to undertake necessary maintenance of the road. It also claimed that vulnerable stretches remained in a severely damaged condition, causing difficulties for commuters and affecting public safety.
The CSU said it had on August 24 urged the Executive Director, NHIDCL, RO-Kohima, not to grant any further extension to the contractor and to ensure restoration and regular maintenance of the road.
In its latest representation, the union has sought termination of Ratna Infrastructure within 14 days, fresh tendering of the balance work within the same period and continued maintenance of the road until completion of the project.
The CSU warned that failure to address its demands would compel it to initiate further agitation, holding the concerned authorities responsible for the continued hardship faced by the public.
