Package-III nearing completion; tunnel works and bridge rehabilitation projects reviewed
A Project Monitoring Group (PMG) meeting to review ongoing highway projects under the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) was held on May 14 at the Office Chamber of the Deputy Commissioner, Kohima.
Chaired by Deputy Commissioner Kohima B Henok Buchem, NCS, the meeting was attended by district administration officials, NHIDCL representatives, contractors, consultants, and other stakeholders to assess the progress of four-lane highway works, tunnel construction, and traffic management along the Kohima-Dimapur corridor.
Officials reviewed the package-wise implementation of the four-lane highway project and the Kohima bypass. NHIDCL informed that Package-I has achieved around 26 percent physical progress, while Package-II has reached approximately 43 percent progress in the Kohima sector. Package-III road works have reportedly achieved nearly 90 percent completion and are expected to open for traffic by July 2026.
Tunnel construction remained a key focus area. Officials stated that separate contracts are being executed for major tunnel sections, including box tunnels and push-technology tunnels. The push-technology tunnel at Chainage 157 has crossed 50 percent progress and is targeted for completion by December 2026, while tunnel sections at Chainages 153 and 156 are expected to be completed by June 2027.
Officials also informed that GSB, WMM, and DBM works are progressing in various stretches. Temporary diversions, culverts, and drainage improvement works are being undertaken to ensure smoother traffic movement during the monsoon season.
Concerns relating to sinking zones, landslides, compensation issues, and tunnel-affected areas were also discussed, with officials stressing the importance of coordination to avoid project delays.
NHIDCL informed that a major 81-metre bridge has been proposed and that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been completed. A consolidated DPR for the Dimapur-Kohima corridor, covering slope protection works and alignment improvements, is expected to be submitted to the Ministry by June or July for approval.
A separate DPR presentation on bridge rehabilitation, new bridge construction, slope protection, and landslide mitigation along the Kohima-Mao Road (NH-02) was also held during the day.
Consultants highlighted that LiDAR surveys, drone radar imaging, slope stability studies, and subsurface investigations had been conducted at critical locations. Proposed interventions include reinforced soil structures, geogrid and geocell technology, gabion retaining walls, soil nailing works, and slope-stabilisation measures.
Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem urged officials and implementing agencies to adopt a humane and people-centric approach while dealing with affected residents during project execution.
(With DIPR inputs)
