The Lotha Middle Range Students’ Union (LMRSU) has suspended the ‘indefinite bandh’ after the prime contractor, M/S North-East Enterprises, assured to complete the upgradation of the Sanis 0’ point to Lakhuti Road, Wokha district, before 30th April 2024.
LMRSU had called for indefinite complete bandh in the Middle Range jurisdiction starting today but on receiving satisfactory written assurance from the prime contractor, the bandh was called off by 2:00 pm. The agitation was being held in protest of the lack of progress of the PMGSY-II road upgradation project which was due to be completed by September 2022 by M/S Northeast Enterprise and NPWD (R&B).
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
During the bandh, an outdoor meeting was held between various stakeholders, including Prime Contractor Akato Zhimomi from MS Northeast Enterprise and Executive Engineer Kuhovi Sema from NPWD (R&B), who responded to the demands at the site.
LMRSU criticised the Department for settling bills for M/S Northeast Enterprise without conducting proper assessment and planning despite the incomplete work. It was highlighted that although over 90% of the sanctioned amount had been disbursed to the contractor, only a minimal stretch of 4 km out of the designated 18 km for blacktopping had been completed.
Seeking a written commitment for the timely completion of the project before the onset of the rainy season, the public expressed optimism for productive outcomes from the ongoing deliberations. They stressed zero tolerance towards any delays in adhering to the specified timeline.
In response, Prime Contractor M/S North-East Enterprises Akato Zhimomi and Executive Engineer Kuhovi Sema assured the union and the general public in writing that work would resume on 25 March 2024, with completion scheduled before 30 April 2024.
LMRSU expressed appreciation to all parties involved and pledged oversight for project completion. The public also commended the LMRSU for its stance and reiterated unwavering support for the union’s efforts.
Read more: LMRSU proposes total bandh over lack of progress of Sanis-Lakhuti road upgradation project