The CSU continued its agitation against the NHIDCL and the concerned contractor for non completion of works on NH-29.
Phek, May 12 (MExN): The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) on May 12 reiterated its decision to intensify its agitation against the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) and its EPC contractor M/s Ratna Infrastructure Projects Pvt. Ltd. over alleged non-fulfillment of commitments related to the ongoing works on NH-29.
The Union stated that the second phase of the agitation will continue “with full intensity” until its demands are met.
In a notification issued by CSU President Pfhülo Sara and General Secretary Kuzoto Swuro, the Union clarified that only select categories of government vehicles will be exempted during the ongoing agitation. These include: Medical Services, Administrative Services, Fire and Emergency Services, Police and Paramilitary Forces, and Power and PHE Department Staff on duty.
Despite earlier warnings circulated through media and social platforms on May 11, the Union noted with concern that it had to seize three NHIDCL vehicles and one Government-Registered Vehicle. “This clearly reflects a lackadaisical attitude and utter disregard for the directives of the CSU,” it stated.
The CSU said that it remains steadfast in its stand and reaffirmed its “unwavering commitment” to the demands placed before the authorities.
“All concerned parties are required to ensure strict compliance and adherence to this directive,” the Union stated, urging for full cooperation during the agitation.
The CSU had earlier announced that it would block the movement of government vehicles belonging to NHIDCL and its contractor along the Chizami–Pfutsero–Phek section of NH-29 in protest over slow progress and alleged negligence.
PTBA backs CSU
Meanwhile, the Pfutsero Town Business Association (PTBA) issued a condemnation of the prolonged delay in completing the Chakhabama–Kikruma section under Package 2 of the Kohima–Jessami Road project, calling the inaction “unacceptable” and warning of potential escalation if urgent corrective measures are not taken.
Vekusu Chuzho, Vice President of the Phek District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PDCCI) and President of PTBA, expressed deep concern over what he termed NHIDCL’s “lack of effective planning, oversight, monitoring, and enforcement.” He said large portions of the road remain impassable, particularly during the monsoon season, stranding essential vehicles and trucks for hours or even days, causing damage to goods and vehicles, inflating transport costs, and disrupting trade and economic activity across the region.
Chuzho also extended solidarity to the Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) for its agitation over the issue, calling it “a reflection of the community’s collective frustration.” He lauded CSU’s role in defending public welfare and infrastructure rights.
Joint Secretary of PDCCI and General Secretary of PTBA, Truvi Rhi, said the delay is not only a developmental failure but also a legal violation. “This constitutes a breach of the Indian Contract Act, 1872, the National Highways Act, 1956, and the Right to Service framework,” Rhi stated, warning that the association may soon escalate the matter. He said PTBA is prepared to file formal complaints through the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), petition the NHIDCL Managing Director in New Delhi, and notify the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to seek disciplinary action and redressal.
Media Secretary Huveta Thuluo, a supplier of essential goods in Pfutsero, said the people of the region have shown “remarkable patience” despite ongoing hardship. “This delay is not merely a management failure—it is a violation of the people’s right to safe transportation, economic opportunity, and public safety,” he said.
