Expressing deep discontentment over the ongoing construction works at Dr Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital (IMDH), Mokokchung, the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) has urged the Department of Health and Family Welfare (DoHFW) to set up an IMDH Construction Evaluation Committee by May 31.
The AKM raised concern over the delayed progress and substandard building materials used in the construction project, which was sanctioned in January 2018 under the National Health Mission (NHM) with an approximate budget of 13.70 crore and a stipulated timeline of 36 months.
“Frequent visits and inspections have been conducted by various CSOs, and numerous complaints have been raised regarding the materials used; yet, the construction does not appear to follow the approved Detailed Project Report (DPR). The construction lacks quality control measures, is poorly built, and could collapse in the event of a natural disaster. During an inspection of the site on 21st May 2025 by AKM, plaster was found falling off the walls, and cracks were visible from the ground to the top floor,” stated the AKM in a letter addressed to the DoHFW on May 26.
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With the IMDH catering to a wide diversity of patients not just from Mokokchung but neighbouring districts, the AKM asserted that the slow progress is a grave concern. “The stipulated timeline of 36 months applies to both Block A and Block B, but at the current pace, the hospital may not be completed anytime soon. The construction of hospitals must adhere to the highest safety and quality standards,” it expressed.
In the light of the above reasons, the AKM has demanded the constitution of a Technical Evaluation team comprising of experts and stakeholders by May 31, 2025 to assess the ongoing construction; reparation of all affected sections before the building can be used; revocation/termination if the firm fails to deliver on time; and that the contract be re-tendered and awarded to a more competent firm.
“AKM will not allow patients to be accommodated in the building if serious structural flaws are not addressed as the safety of the patients and the medical personnel are our utmost concern. We urge the concerned department to immediately halt the ongoing construction unless the building is properly evaluated, and to fulfill these genuine demands in the interest of public welfare within the stipulated time. Failing this, the AKM will be compelled to take stronger measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the community,” cautioned the AKM.
