Pfutsero, October 24 (MExN): The Chakhesang Students' Union (CSU) has temporarily suspended its protest against the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) following assurances from the latter to address key concerns regarding road maintenance and project delays in Pfutsero, Phek district. The suspension, which will last for 15 days, comes after NHIDCL committed to resolving the issues that led to the CSU's agitation.
In a letter addressed to the CSU, NHIDCL General Manager Gajendra Singh Rana acknowledged the union’s grievances and assured that the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) Contractor had already initiated maintenance work on the highway. “The maintenance work is expected to be completed within 15 days, and NHIDCL is closely supervising the contractor’s progress,” Rana stated in the letter dated October 23.
The CSU had shut down the NHIDCL office in Pfutsero on October 21, 2024, demanding action against the delay in road construction and the lack of proper maintenance. NHIDCL, in response, outlined a timeline for the project and emphasized that substantial progress is expected by November 15, 2024. "If the EPC Contractor fails to meet the milestone, we will issue a cure notice and take further action, including the possibility of terminating the contract," NHIDCL stated, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Additionally, NHIDCL clarified that the contractor is responsible for ensuring the highway remains traffic-worthy at all times.
Failure to meet this obligation within the stipulated 15-day period could result in NHIDCL seeking another contractor to take over the maintenance “at the risk and cost of the current EPC Contractor.”
In response to these assurances, the CSU announced the suspension of its agitation in a letter dated October 24, 2024. “We are temporarily suspending our agitation to provide you the opportunity to fulfill your promises,” stated CSU President Phulosara and General Secretary Kuzhato. They also highlighted that the suspension is conditional and that they will "remain vigilant and continue to monitor the progress closely."
The CSU emphasized that should NHIDCL fail to meet the agreed-upon timelines or address the concerns effectively, the union will not hesitate to resume its protest. The letter further noted the union's dedication to ensuring that community interests are protected throughout the project's duration, stating that they will hold NHIDCL accountable if promises are not kept.
