Nagaland: LH flags delay, quality of Foothill Road work

The Lotha Hoho on January 21 conducted a spot inspection of the ongoing Nagaland Foothill Road construction under Baghty Division in Wokha district, following concerns over delays and the quality of work.
The inspection was led by Lotha Hoho members and accompanied by representatives from the Lotha Lower Range Public Organisation (LLRPO), Ralan Area Lotha Hoho (RALH), Nagaland Foothill Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC), JE PWD (R&B), contractors handling the five bridges along the 38.6-km stretch, and members of the Agrive Villagers Forum–Champang Merapani Area.
During the inspection, it was informed that although the stipulated completion period ended on December 8, 2025, the contractor and the PWD (R&B) department have been granted a three-month extension to complete the project.
Expressing dissatisfaction over the slow pace of work, the Lotha Hoho urged the contractors to intensify efforts and complete the project within the extended timeframe, warning that the approaching monsoon season could severely hamper further progress. The Hoho also stressed strict adherence to the specifications laid down in the Detailed Project Report (DPR), noting that the project is crucial for public welfare.
The Hoho further appealed to the department to expedite the second phase of the Nagaland Foothill Road—now renamed the Trans-Nagaland Expressway, also known as the People’s Road—at the earliest.
Providing details on the current status, the Lotha Hoho stated that the stretch from Merapani to Doyang Bridge up to the Governor’s Camp spans 38.6 km. Of the five bridges under construction, iron structures for all are yet to arrive from the department. Out of 152 culverts, only 48 have been completed. The earthwork along the entire stretch was described as deplorable and far below acceptable standards. The Hoho also pointed out the absence of wing walls for bridges and culverts, cautioning that these structures are at risk of being washed away during the monsoon.
Vice Chairman of Lotha Hoho, Eli’s Jungio, expressed strong dissatisfaction after visiting all project sites, stating that the workmanship was substandard and nearly 100 culverts remain incomplete. He noted that although the deadline has been extended till March, only two months remain, making timely completion unlikely unless urgent corrective measures are taken. He warned that the Lotha Hoho would closely monitor progress on a daily basis and would take appropriate action if the work is not completed within the extended period.
Representatives of the NFHRCC appreciated the Lotha Hoho for initiating the inspection and informed that works in other divisions are nearing completion. However, they expressed serious concern over the poor progress in Baghty Division, observing that less than 50 per cent of the work has been completed despite more than a year having elapsed. They expressed doubt over the project’s completion within the given timeframe.
While appreciating the consistent presence of the Junior Engineer during inspections, the NFHRCC expressed concern over the absence of the Executive Engineer and Sub-Divisional Officer, questioning the lack of supervisory involvement. They also highlighted acute staff shortages in Baghty Division and urged the department to urgently deploy additional field personnel, noting that Wokha district has the longest stretch of the project, yet remains severely understaffed.
Responding to the concerns, junior engineer, PWD R&B, Baghty Division, Yanbemo Ngullie stated that the original contract period has lapsed and a three-month extension has been granted. He said efforts are being made to expedite the work and assured that construction is being carried out as per DPR specifications.
Meanwhile, Lotha Lower Range Public Organisation president T. Amos Kikon stated that the public is dissatisfied with the quality of work. While expressing satisfaction with the bridges, he pointed out substandard earth cutting and raised concerns that the Hume pipes used would not withstand heavy vehicular movement for even a year.
Yanmhon Area Public Organisation president Thungdemo Tungoe stated that since May 2025, inspections have been conducted 38 times, with repeated advisories issued to improve workmanship. However, he said there has been no improvement and urged better coordination between the department and contractors to ensure acceptable construction standards.