Pochury Students' Union backs Chakhesang Students' Union ultimatum demanding contract termination and fresh tenders over delays on NH-29 Package-II.
DIMAPUR — The Pochury Students' Union (PSU) has declared support for the ultimatum served and measures undertaken by the Chakhesang Students' Union (CSU) regarding delays in the execution of the NH-29 two-lane Kohima-Jessami Road project under Package-II.
In a press statement, the union stated that the arterial highway serves as a lifeline for Phek district and extends directly into Meluri district, connecting border communities with the rest of the state.
It noted that the failure of the contractor, M/s Ratna Infrastructure Projects Pvt. Ltd., to fulfil contractual obligations has caused prolonged hardship, safety hazards, and economic impacts to commuters, patients, students, and transporters.
Highlighting contractual issues, the PSU pointed out that the project was awarded on October 10, 2023, with an original completion deadline of January 4, 2026. Despite being granted an extension of time up to September 24, 2026, by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), the physical progress of the project stands at 44.30 per cent.
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The union also cited breaches of tripartite commitments, stating that despite entering into a six-point agreement on June 22, 2026, with the CSU and NHIDCL, the contractor failed to deploy the committed machinery and workforce and neglected road maintenance.
Joint site inspections conducted on July 13 and August 4 revealed unmotorable stretches and recurrent vehicular accidents, leading to the sealing of the Ratna Base Camp on September 25.
The PSU endorsed the CSU’s demands for the immediate termination of the contract with M/s Ratna Infrastructure Projects Pvt. Ltd. within the stipulated 72 working hours and the immediate floating of fresh tenders to reassign the 21.90-km stretch from Design Km 29.60 to Km 51.50 to a capable agency.
The union affirmed that should NHIDCL fail to act within the stipulated timeframe, leading to the proposed total blockade of the national highway from September 30, it will stand in solidarity with the CSU. The PSU added that NHIDCL and concerned implementing agencies must assume responsibility for any consequences arising from collective action.
The statement was issued by PSU President Rongley Leyri and General Secretary Tsiarhotho Thsangkhure, urging NHIDCL and the Government of Nagaland to intervene and address the longstanding issues surrounding the NH-29 Package-II without delay.