KOHIMA, MAY 13 (MExN): The Angami Students' Union (ASU) has expressed strong concern over the slow progress of developmental activities in its region, particularly the ongoing road infrastructure projects under the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).
In a statement issued on Monday, the ASU said it stands firm on social issues concerning the student community and society at large. The Union appreciated the Chakhesang Students' Union (CSU) for raising the issue of the deteriorating condition of inter-district road connectivity, stating that CSU’s “commitment to public welfare and the future of the people is commendable and inspiring.”
While acknowledging NHIDCL’s efforts in addressing public grievances, the ASU said it is “deeply concerned” over the continued delays in completing crucial infrastructure works. “The consequences of inaction during the monsoon will severely impact safety, connectivity and daily life,” the Union stated.
The ASU warned that failure to ensure safety and quality road services in the region before the onset of the monsoon would not be tolerated. It urged NHIDCL to act with “urgency and sincerity, respecting the people’s right to safe and reliable infrastructure.”
The Union further cautioned that any further negligence would compel it to take strong, united measures in defense of the people’s interests.
PCVODU slams NHIDCL, contractor
The Pfutsero Commercial Vehicle Owners and Drivers Union (PCVODU) also extended its full support to the CSU in its stance against the deteriorating condition of the 2-lane road (Package 2) between Chakhabama and Kikruma.
In a press release, the Union said the failure of the implementing agency, National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), and the executing contractor, M/s Ratna Infrastructure Projects Pvt Ltd, under the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract mode, has caused severe hardship to commercial drivers and the commuting public.
It strongly condemned what it termed as inaction and substandard execution of the road project, resulting in a nearly unmotorable stretch of highway. The Union said the poor condition of the road has severely impacted the lives and livelihoods of commercial vehicle operators who depend on the route for daily operations.
According to the Union, the damaged road has led to a surge in vehicle maintenance and repair costs due to potholes, poor drainage, and rough surfaces, causing extensive wear to suspensions, tyres, and undercarriage systems. As a result, owners are forced to invest heavily in frequent repairs, affecting profit margins and threatening the viability of commercial transport services in the region.
Further, it stated that travel time has increased substantially, reducing productivity and causing income losses due to delayed trips and fuel inefficiency. The Union also flagged rising safety concerns, citing frequent accidents caused by unsafe road conditions, which have impacted passenger and cargo safety and led to increased insurance premiums and reduced access to coverage for many drivers.
Delayed delivery of goods has also harmed the reputation of service providers, it said, adding that overall income reduction has affected the Union's ability to support its members and advocate effectively.
The Union reminded stakeholders that, under the National Highways Act, 1956, the responsibility for maintaining national highways lies with the central government or the authorized agency, in this case, NHIDCL. It further pointed out that the EPC framework legally binds contractors to uphold quality standards and timelines, failing which legal and contractual penalties may be invoked.
