The Pochury Students' Union has joined the Chakhesang Students' Union in demanding accountability for delays on NH-29.
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DIMAPUR — The Pochury Students' Union (PSU) has expressed its support and solidarity with the Chakhesang Students' Union (CSU) in its demand for accountability and justice regarding the delay in the completion of the National Highway-29 two-lane (Kohima to Jessami Road) Package II project.
The PSU expressed concern over the continued neglect and indifference displayed by the concerned authorities and executing agencies despite repeated appeals, representations, and public outcry regarding the deplorable condition of this vital road.
In a press release, the PSU stated that the Kohima to Jessami Road is a lifeline connecting thousands of people across Phek district, Meluri district, and the eastern regions of Nagaland.
The union noted that the prolonged delay has adversely affected the daily lives of students, patients, farmers, traders, government employees, transporters, and the general public who depend on this route for essential services and economic activities.
Also read: CSU serves NHIDCL ultimatum, seeks cancellation of Kohima-Jessami road extension
The student union lamented that despite repeated assurances and commitments made by the contractor and the concerned agencies, little tangible progress has been witnessed on the ground. It added that the failure to complete the project within the stipulated timeline, coupled with the decision to grant further extensions despite unsatisfactory performance, has added to public frustration and resentment.
The PSU viewed with concern the tendency of the responsible authorities to remain unresponsive to the genuine grievances of the people. Numerous appeals and concerns raised by civil society organisations, student bodies, and affected citizens appear to have fallen on deaf ears, reflecting a lack of accountability on the part of the agencies entrusted with executing and monitoring the project, it stated.
Highlighting the consequences of the delay, the PSU stated that commuters continue to endure hazardous travel conditions daily, with many suffering substantial financial losses due to frequent vehicle breakdowns and damage. Patients requiring urgent medical attention, students, and businesses relying on transportation services have also been severely affected.
With the onset of the monsoon season, the situation has further deteriorated, exposing commuters to heightened risks and making travel unsafe. The PSU stated that the safety, convenience, and welfare of the people cannot be compromised due to administrative inefficiency, negligence, or lack of commitment.
The union endorsed the demands of the CSU and called upon the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), the EPC contractor, and all concerned authorities to immediately address the issue. The PSU urged the authorities to review the extension granted to the contractor, ensure proper maintenance and restoration of the existing road and drainage systems, and take necessary measures to expedite the completion of the project.
Standing with the CSU, the PSU stated that the legitimate concerns of the people can no longer be ignored and warned that continued inaction will strengthen the demand for greater accountability.