Phek, October 7: The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) on Wednesday held a peaceful democratic agitation at Glory Peak Junction, Pfütsero, demanding immediate action against the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and EPC contractor M/s Ratna Infrastructure Projects Pvt. Ltd. over the delayed and poor condition of NH-29 Two-Lane (Kohima-Jessami) Road, Package-II.
The agitation, led by CSU General Secretary Rhilo Chiero, focused on the stretch from near Kidwema Road, Chakhabama, to near Kikruma Village, covering a design length of 21.90 km.
In its representation to the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, the CSU stated that the project was awarded to M/s Ratna Infrastructure Projects Pvt. Ltd. on October 10, 2023, with the scheduled completion date of January 4, 2026. However, the union alleged that the project remains incomplete and that the road continues to pose difficulties for commuters.
The CSU claimed that despite an Extension of Time granted by NHIDCL until September 24, 2026, the overall project progress stood at only 44 percent after the expiry of the extension.
It also recalled a six-point agreement signed on June 22, 2026, between the CSU, NHIDCL and the EPC contractor, stating that the union had extended cooperation by helping address land-related and other issues affecting the project. However, it alleged that adequate machinery, labour and road maintenance were still not provided.
The union further stated that it had earlier submitted representations to the authorities, including one on February 27, 2025, seeking intervention for timely completion of the project, and another on August 24, 2026, opposing any further extension of the contractor’s deadline and seeking immediate restoration and regular maintenance of damaged portions.
The CSU has placed a three-point charter of demands before the Ministry, seeking the immediate termination of M/s Ratna Infrastructure Projects Pvt. Ltd. within 14 days, fresh tendering of the remaining work within 14 days, and continued maintenance of the road until completion of the project.
The agitation also saw solidarity messages from representatives of the Naga Students’ Federation, Angami Students’ Union, Pochury Students’ Union, United Sangtam Students’ Conference, Chakhesang Mothers’ Association and various Phek district and Pfütsero-based organisations.
The CSU said failure to address its demands would compel it to initiate further democratic agitation, holding the concerned authorities responsible for addressing the grievances of the public.
