Student body seeks cancellation of contractor’s extension and immediate repairs on delayed Kohima-Jessami highway project, warns of stronger public action
The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) has given the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) a 14-day ultimatum to cancel the extension granted to the contractor executing the NH-29 Kohima-Jessami Road Package-II project, alleging that the highway remains in a “deplorable” condition months after its original completion deadline.
In a representation addressed to the Executive Director (Technical), NHIDCL Regional Office, Kohima, the union expressed “strong resentment and deep concern” over what it described as the inordinate delay in the execution of the project despite repeated assurances from the contractor.
The CSU noted that the project was originally scheduled for completion on January 4, 2026, and said the EPC contractor, M/s Ratna Infra Project Pvt Ltd, had previously assured that the work would be completed. However, the union claimed that more than three months after the deadline, commuters continue to face hardship due to the poor condition of the road.
“It is a matter of serious concern that, even after the lapse of more than three months since the original completion deadline, the condition of the road remains deplorable,” the CSU stated.
The union alleged that road users continue to face safety risks and financial losses due to damage sustained by vehicles travelling along the highway.
The CSU also questioned NHIDCL’s decision to grant the contractor an extension until September 24, 2026, despite the union’s earlier demand for termination of the contract on grounds of unsatisfactory performance and failure to meet project obligations.
The student body further alleged that work on the project was progressing at a slow pace and claimed that adequate machinery, manpower and resources were not being deployed at the site.
The union demanded that NHIDCL cancel the extension order issued to the contractor within 14 days and ensure immediate restoration and proper maintenance of the road and drainage system, particularly with the onset of the monsoon season.
It warned that any inconvenience caused to commuters due to improper maintenance would be the responsibility of the executing agency.
The CSU warned that failure to comply with its demands within the stipulated period would compel the organisation to initiate “stronger democratic and public actions.”
“The Chakhesang Students’ Union remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the rights, safety and welfare of the people and will not remain a silent spectator to this prolonged negligence and institutional failure,” the statement said.
