CSU Demands No Further Extensions for NH-29 Project Amid Delays

Kohima, India Aug 24, 2026 ALN: The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) has urged the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) not to grant any further extension of time (EoT) to Ratna Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd. for the NH-29 Two-Lane Kohima-Jessami Road Package-II project, citing prolonged delays and continuing public hardship.

The NH-29 project is a critical infrastructure initiative that aims to enhance connectivity between Kohima, the capital of , and Jessami, a border town. This road is not only vital for local commuters but also for trade and transport between India and neighboring countries, making it an essential artery for economic activity in the region. The project was originally scheduled for completion on January 4, 2026, but has faced significant delays, prompting the NHIDCL to grant an extension up to September 24, 2026. The CSU's concerns stem from the fact that despite this extension, the overall work progress stands at only 44.30%, which they describe as unacceptable for a road of such importance.

The CSU emphasized the road's significance as a lifeline for thousands of people, particularly for residents of Phek, Kiphire, and Meluri districts. The road is critical for daily travel for various groups, including students commuting to educational institutions, patients seeking medical care, government officials performing their duties, and traders conducting business. The delays in the project have not only hindered these essential activities but have also exacerbated existing hardships for the local population.

In light of the ongoing delays, the CSU has pointed out that the deterioration of the road has led to severe consequences for commuters. Reports of individuals being stranded for hours due to poor road conditions have become increasingly common. Additionally, the lack of proper maintenance has resulted in several accidents, raising serious concerns about public safety. The CSU's representation to NHIDCL also referenced a six-point agreement signed on June 22 between the CSU, NHIDCL, and the EPC contractor, which was intended to facilitate the project's completion and address these pressing issues.

This agreement came after the CSU issued a 14-day ultimatum to NHIDCL regarding the delayed project. The terms of the agreement included provisions for joint inspections every 20 days to assess progress and site conditions. The agreement also stipulated that emergency repairs should be conducted within 48 hours, machinery and materials should be deployed within 72 hours, and adequate manpower should be present at the site. Most crucially, it mandated the completion of 100% of the physical works by the extended deadline of September 24.

However, according to the CSU, subsequent joint inspections conducted on July 13 and August 4 revealed a lack of visible progress. The union alleged that the project continued to suffer from inadequate machinery, insufficient manpower, and poor maintenance, which has compounded the difficulties faced by the public. The CSU has articulated that the situation has escalated beyond a mere contractual delay, evolving into a serious public concern that affects the daily lives of the residents.

In response to these ongoing issues, the CSU has made a firm demand that no further extensions be granted to Ratna Infra Projects beyond the current extension. They have called for immediate restoration of vulnerable and severely damaged segments of the road, along with daily maintenance throughout the project corridor to ensure safe and uninterrupted travel for the public. The union has expressed that any further extension, given the circumstances of prolonged failure, inadequate progress, and repeated non-compliance, would be taken seriously and could lead to the pursuit of "appropriate democratic and lawful courses of action" in the interest of the public.

The CSU's stance reflects a growing frustration among local communities regarding the handling of infrastructure projects in the region. Infrastructure development is crucial for economic growth and social well-being, particularly in remote and underserved areas. The NH-29 project exemplifies the challenges faced in achieving timely project completion, which can have far-reaching implications for local economies and quality of life.

The CSU has urged NHIDCL to take their representation seriously, emphasizing the need for accountability and timely action to prevent further uncertainty and hardship for the public. The outcome of this situation will not only impact the immediate stakeholders but also set a precedent for how infrastructure projects are managed in the future, particularly in regions where connectivity is vital for development.

As the deadline approaches, the pressure mounts on both the contractor and the NHIDCL to deliver on their commitments. The CSU's proactive stance serves as a reminder of the critical role that civil society organizations play in advocating for public interests, especially in matters of infrastructure that directly affect the daily lives of citizens.