Chakhaba-Kikruma stretch (Package II)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | October 9
The National People’s Party (NPP) Phek district today submitted an ultimatum to General Manager (P), PMU Pfutsero, Nagaland, National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) regarding Kohima-Jessami Road and demanded for immediate action.
The NPP, Phek District strongly condemned NHIDCL's blatant disregard the suffering of the people due to the deplorable condition of the Kohima-Jessami road, specifically the Chakhaba-Kikruma stretch (Package II).
“Despite our frequent appeals and warnings, NHIDCL has demonstrated a callous disregard for human life and public safety. The contractor's inactivity and your authority's negligence have resulted in immense hardship, damage, and risk to commuters,” the ultimatum stated.
Before this 2 - lane road project started, this vital road was serving its purpose well to the people of Phek District, well, of course, with some minor repairs during rainy season. But after the insincere implementation of this two lane road programme, the road has been battered and has reduced the life of the people to a very dilapidated condition, it stated.
The NPP Phek district stated that its press statements dated May 8th, 2024, and August 9th, 2024, explicitly highlighted the urgency and gravity of the situation.
“Regrettably, NHIDCL has chosen to ignore our pleas, displaying a shocking lack of accountability and responsibility,” it stated.
Furthermore, the Project Monitoring Group (PMG), Phek District's recommendation (Order No. DCPK/LR/2-LANE/GEN/1/2021/171, dated June 13, 2024) to terminate the contract was disregarded and therefore exacerbated the crisis.
The people's patience has worn thin, and we will not tolerate further negligence, according to NPP Phek District President, Kuvekhuyi D Vadeo and General Secretary, Khrope Tsuha.
The NPP Phek district demanded immediate termination of the contract with the incompetent contractor, call for a fresh tender and commencement of road maintenance work immediately.
“Failure to comply will prompt us to take severe action through democratic protests, demonstrations or legal action against NHIDCL and the contractor, “it stated adding “We will not hesitate to escalate this matter to ensure accountability for the suffering inflicted upon the people.”
