Dimapur, August 5 (MExN): The Pochury Hoho has expressed concern over the prolonged delay in the execution of the NH-29 Package-II (Kikruma) project along the Kohima-Jessami Road, saying the stalled work has caused hardship to the public and hampered the socio-economic development of the region.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the apex Pochury tribal body said the repeated delays have persisted despite assurances from the authorities concerned.
Describing the Kohima-Jessami Road as a vital arterial highway, the Hoho said it serves as the principal lifeline connecting the districts of Phek, Meluri, Kiphire and Shamator with the state capital.
It said the poor condition of the road has adversely affected commuters, patients, students, government employees, traders and transporters by increasing travel time and transportation costs, compromising public safety, disrupting essential services and affecting economic activities across the region.
The Hoho also extended its support to the concerns raised by the Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) and acknowledged the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed before the Gauhati High Court, Kohima Bench, seeking judicial intervention to ensure the timely completion of the long-pending national highway project.
Appealing to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL), contractor Ratna Infrastructure Projects Pvt Ltd, the Nagaland government and other authorities, the organisation called for immediate, effective and time-bound measures to expedite construction and complete the project within the stipulated timeframe.
It further urged the authorities to maintain the highest standards of transparency, accountability and efficiency during the implementation of the project.
The Pochury Hoho said reliable road connectivity is essential for equitable development, improved healthcare, quality education, economic growth, tourism and regional integration. It maintained that the prolonged delay in completing the highway has deprived the people of essential connectivity and slowed the overall development of the region.
Stating that the timely completion of the NH-29 Package-II project is a matter of public welfare, regional development and social equity, the Hoho urged all concerned authorities to discharge their responsibilities with urgency and ensure that the project is completed without further delay.
“The people have waited long enough and deserve a safe, dependable and all-weather highway that will promote sustainable development and improve the quality of life across the region,” the statement added.
