- MOKOKCHUNG — The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) has issued an urgent demand for the
Nagaland state government to form a Technical Evaluation Committee by May 31,
to probe the alleged substandard construction of Dr. Imkongliba Memorial
District Hospital (IMDH) in Mokokchung.
- Citing significant delays, poor-quality materials, and
structural flaws, AKM warned that the hospital’s current state poses serious
risks to patients and medical personnel.
- In a letter addressed to the Principal Director, Department
of Health & Family Welfare, the AKM expressed discontent over the project, sanctioned in
January 2018 under the National Health Mission with a INR 13.70 crore budget
and a 36-month timeline to complete both building blocks.
- Despite these provisions, the construction of Block A
remains incomplete, with Block B yet to commence. “The progress is alarmingly
slow, and substandard materials have been used, deviating from the Detailed
Project Report (DPR),” the letter stated.
Also read: Ao Students’ Conference demands urgent probe into substandard construction of Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital
- AKM stated that frequent visits and inspections have been
conducted by various CSOs, and numerous complaints have been raised regarding
the materials used; yet, the construction does not appear to follow the
approved DPR.
- AKM further stated
that an inspection on May 21, revealed plaster peeling off walls and cracks
spanning from the ground to the top floor, raising concerns about the
building’s safety.
- “The construction lacks quality control and could collapse
during a natural disaster,” it noted, emphasising that hospitals must meet the
highest safety standards. Previous inspections by civil society organisations
echoed similar complaints, yet no corrective action has been taken.
- AKM highlighted the broader impact, noting that IMDH serves
not only Mokokchung but also neighbouring districts. “The delay is a grave
concern for patients who depend on this hospital,” it said.
- Along with the formation of a Technical Evaluation Committee
with experts and stakeholders by May 31, 2025, to assess the construction, the
AKM has demanded immediate repair of all affected sections before the building
is occupied. It has also sought termination of the contract with KC Infra
Projects Private Limited if deadlines are not met and re-tendering of the contract
to a competent firm capable of delivering quality work on time.
- “AKM will not allow patients to be accommodated in a
building with serious structural flaws,” it said, urging authorities to halt
construction pending evaluation and address these demands promptly. It further
warned of stronger measures if public welfare is ignored.