The Chakhesang Students’ Union has issued a 14-day ultimatum to NHIDCL over delays in the Kohima-Jessami Road project and poor road conditions.
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KOHIMA — The Chakhesang Students' Union (CSU) has served a 14-day ultimatum on the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), expressing resentment over the delay in completion of the NH-29 Two-Lane (Kohima-Jessami Road) Package II project.
In a letter addressed to the Executive Director (Technical), NHIDCL Regional Office, Kohima, the union demanded cancellation of the extension granted to the contractor and immediate restoration and maintenance of the road.
The CSU stated that the project was originally scheduled for completion on January 4, 2026. It said EPC contractor M/s Ratna Infra Projects Private Limited had assured completion of the project by that deadline during a meeting held on May 14, 2025.
However, the union maintained that the assurance had not translated into visible progress on the ground.
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The CSU also objected to NHIDCL’s decision to extend the completion period until September 24, 2026, despite its earlier demand for termination of the contractor over what it described as unsatisfactory performance and failure to fulfil project obligations.
According to the union, more than three months have passed since the original completion deadline, yet the condition of the road remains poor, causing hardship to commuters, posing safety risks and resulting in damage to vehicles.
The union further alleged that the project was being executed without adequate machinery, manpower and resources required for timely completion.
In its ultimatum, the CSU demanded that NHIDCL cancel the extension order issued on February 20, 2026, within 14 days of receipt of the notice.
It also called for immediate restoration and proper maintenance of the road and drainage system, particularly in view of the monsoon season. The union warned that the executing agency would be held responsible for any inconvenience caused to commuters due to inadequate maintenance.
The CSU cautioned that failure to comply with its demands within the stipulated period would compel it to initiate stronger democratic and public actions, for which NHIDCL, the contractor and the concerned authorities would be held responsible.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the rights, safety and welfare of the public, the union said it would not remain a silent spectator to what it termed prolonged negligence and institutional failure.
According to information available on the NHIDCL website, Package II of the Kohima-Jessami Road project covers a stretch of 21.90 km and had recorded 40% cumulative physical progress. The original completion date for the package was January 4, 2026.