Delays hit Merangkong–Tamlu–Mon road projects in Nagaland

DIMAPUR — Several stretches of the Merangkong–Tamlu–Mon (MTM) two-lane road projects under the Special Accelerated Road Development Programme in North East (SARDP-NE) remain incomplete despite nearing their projected deadlines, according to updates from the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL).

The 23.035 km two-lane road with hard shoulders (Package IV), taken up on Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) basis, was originally scheduled for completion on September 9, 2025.

However, the work remains ongoing with physical progress at 61% and financial progress at 59%. The project, costing INR 323.98 crore, was awarded on June 9, 2023, with an appointed date of September 11, 2023.

The stretch covers Km 63.800 to Km 86.835, traversing difficult mountainous terrain and connecting Tanhai, Lengnyu, Mon, and Mon Town.

According to NHIDCL, once complete, the road will significantly boost connectivity, socio-economic development, and livelihood opportunities in the region.

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Another ongoing section, the 20 km two-lane road with hard shoulders (Package II), also under SARDP-NE Phase-A, has recorded faster progress. Traversing Longleng and Mon districts, it connects villages such as Namsang, Netnyu, and Kangching.

With financial progress at 79% and physical progress at 82%, the INR 215.79 crore project is expected to improve access to hospitals, schools, markets, and offices while easing the transport of agricultural produce and enhancing commercial activity.

Initially scheduled for completion on August 21, 2025, the project was awarded on June 9, 2023, and appointed on August 22, 2023.

Meanwhile, another stretch of the MTM road—the Wakching Town portion (Package V)—is also behind schedule.

The 13.45 km two-lane road with hard shoulders, from Km 59.000 to Km 72.450, was awarded on July 19, 2023, with an appointed date of September 8, 2023. With a cost of INR 161.73 crore, the project has achieved 74% physical progress and 72% financial progress against its original completion target of September 7, 2025.

NHIDCL stated that while delays are evident, all the projects are vital for the region’s connectivity and long-term socio-economic growth, particularly in easing transportation through challenging terrains.