Minister for Public Works Department (Roads & Bridges), G Kaito Aye, conducted a two-day inspection of ongoing road projects under PMGSY–III on February 12 and 13.
Kohima, February 13 (MExN): The Minister for Public Works Department (Roads & Bridges), G Kaito Aye, conducted a two-day inspection of ongoing road projects under PMGSY–III on February 12 and 13 to review progress and ensure timely completion of works.
On February 12, the Minister inspected the road projects from Tsaphimi to Saptiqa (24.08 km), Saptiqa to Xukhepu via Ghikiye (25.21 km), L021 to Shena Old (5.6 km), T-01 to Lizu Old (11.66 km), and T-02 to Naghuto (New) (8.18 km).
During the visit, it was observed that the overall progress of the works was “generally slow,” with several stretches yet to attain the expected pace. In certain roads, while earthwork had advanced, progress in pavement-related activities remained inadequate, alleged an update received here.
The Minister noted that some portions were affected by challenging terrain and land-related issues. However, he directed the contractors to focus on stretches free from encumbrances and proceed without delay, while the Department simultaneously addresses those issues. For roads where formation and other items of work were nearing completion, he emphasised immediate preparedness for Full Depth Reclamation (FDR) and blacktopping works so that no further time is lost.
Contractors assured that the remaining works, including FDR and blacktopping, would be completed by March 31, 2026. The Minister cautioned all concerned that the assured timelines must be strictly adhered to and that delays beyond the committed date will not be acceptable.
On February 13, the Minister inspected the T-01 to Mangmetong road (36.45 km), the “longest single road under PMGSY–III.” The progress of work on this stretch was found to be very slow and overall project management required improvement. Considering the importance of the road and its long-standing public demand, the contractor was advised to substantially enhance manpower deployment, machinery mobilization and on-site supervision to accelerate progress.
The Department informed that there are 43 road projects covering a total length of 545 km under PMGSY–III currently at various stages of implementation. All works are being executed using FDR technology through specialised mechanised processes capable of achieving up to 1 km per. At present, seven sets of FDR machinery are deployed at different locations and an additional four to five sets are expected to reach the work sites within the next 10 to 12 days. So far, more than 60 km of FDR work has been completed, with another 60+ km under progress. Trial patches have been laid in 12 roads and are awaiting test results to proceed further. Contractors are also preparing to commence blacktopping works in three roads.
The Minister directed that contractors must prioritise completion of pavement works by mobilising adequate machinery and manpower and by deploying separate dedicated teams and sets of machinery for each road project. For longer stretches, he instructed contractors to establish multiple work camps to facilitate simultaneous execution and improve productivity.
He further stated that dedicated Project Implementation Units (PIUs) have been put in place exclusively for PMGSY-III works to ensure better coordination, monitoring and accountability. He emphasized that PIUs and contractors must work in close coordination to remove bottlenecks and improve progress on the ground.
The Minister acknowledged the cooperation extended by villagers, civil society organisations and stakeholders in facilitating the projects and assisting in resolving local issues. He observed that such cooperation should be matched with sincere effort and professional execution by the contractors.
Reiterating the Government’s commitment to rural connectivity, G Kaito Aye stated that PMGSY–III projects must be completed within the stipulated timeframe, maintaining quality and durability, so that the intended benefits reach the people without further delay.
