AKM, Ao Senden demand written assurance on structural changes, fire safety proposal still pending
A high-level review meeting on the upgradation of Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital (IMDH), Mokokchung, was held on July 24, 2025, at the Conference Room of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office amid growing concerns from civil society organizations over construction quality and safety.
Chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner Atsungba Walling, who also serves as the convener of the Investigation Committee, the meeting brought together representatives from the Medical Engineering Division, the executing contractor (KC Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd.), and civil society stakeholders including the Ao Senden and the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM).
The meeting was convened following a joint representation submitted by Ao Senden and AKM on July 8, which highlighted multiple structural issues, including substandard plastering, hollow-sounding tiles, leakage on the third floor, and an unexplained reduction in reinforcement for the third floor columns.
KC Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd., the contractor responsible for the ongoing hospital upgradation, acknowledged the complaints and assured that all defective works would be rectified without delay. This includes redoing defective plastering, resolving tile issues, sealing third-floor joints, and preventing water seepage by applying concrete topping on the terrace.
The Medical Engineering Division affirmed that corrective measures would be undertaken in coordination with all concerned stakeholders.
A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation of findings from the Rebound Hammer Test (also known as the Schmidt or Swiss Hammer Test), conducted on July 4 by M/s North East Engineers. The non-destructive test assesses the compressive strength and uniformity of concrete.
According to the Executive Engineer, the test results show that the concrete used in the main building exceeds the M20 and M15 grade requirements. However, the test also carries the caveat that it indicates strength only up to a limited surface depth, and results may vary deeper within the structure.
One of the most serious concerns raised was the reduction in column reinforcement on the third floor from 20mm to 16mm bars. While the Medical Engineering Division clarified that this change was made after consultation with structural consultants—and in accordance with IS 456 design norms for reduced structural load—the Ao Senden and AKM demanded a written assurance from the department. The department has agreed to furnish this assurance.
Another issue flagged by civil society groups was the lack of fire safety provisions in the building plan. Officials clarified that no fund allocation was made for fire safety in the DPR (Detailed Project Report), but added that a separate proposal will be sent to the government for approval.
The meeting concluded with concrete action directives: Use of high-quality sand and cement to be ensured; Site records to be properly maintained; A qualified site engineer must be deployed at all times; and Civil society will be kept in the loop on structural assurances.