Ao Students’ Conference demands setup of evaluation committee to probe IMDH construction, sets May 31 deadline

• 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.
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• 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.
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• 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.
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• 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.
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• 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.
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• “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.
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• 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.
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• 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.
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• “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.