DIMAPUR, AUG 24 (NPN): Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) has demanded that no further extension of time (EoT) be granted to M/s Ratna Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd. for the delayed NH-29 two-lane Kohima-Jessami road package-II project, citing the contractor’s prolonged failure, slow progress and the continuing hardship faced by commuters.
In a representation to NHIDCL executive director (projects), regional office Kohima, CSU president Povozo Soho and general secretary Rhilo Chiero said the project was originally scheduled for completion by January 4, 2026. However, the contractor failed to complete the work within the stipulated period.
It said NHIDCL subsequently granted an EoT until September 24, 2026. CSU said that despite the extension and the lapse of more than six months since the original completion deadline, the overall physical progress remained at only 44.30%.
The union said the road serves as a lifeline for thousands of people travelling to and from Phek, Kiphire and Meluri districts. CSU said the deteriorating condition of the road has affected students, patients requiring urgent medical attention, government officials, traders and others dependent on the route for daily movement. It said CSU, NHIDCL and the contractor had signed a six-point agreement on June 22, 2026, to facilitate completion of the project. However, the union alleged that the contractor continued to lack adequate machinery, manpower and maintenance arrangements.
CSU said joint inspections conducted on July 13 and August 4 showed no visible progress, while substantial portions of the road remained in deplorable and unmotorable condition. According to CSU, commuters have been stranded for hours and several accidents have occurred due to poor maintenance. CSU said the delay was no longer merely a contractual issue but had become a serious public concern causing daily hardship.
The union has, therefore, demanded that no further EoT be considered or granted to M/s Ratna Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd. beyond the existing extension ending September 24.
It also demanded immediate restoration of vulnerable and severely damaged locations and daily maintenance throughout the project stretch to ensure safe and uninterrupted movement.
CSU warned that any further extension despite the contractor’s prolonged failure, inadequate progress and repeated non-compliance would be viewed seriously and could compel the union to initiate appropriate democratic and lawful action in the larger public interest.
The union urged NHIDCL to take serious cognizance of the matter and ensure that the public was not subjected to further uncertainty and hardship.
