The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) has opposed any further Extension of Time (EoT) to M/s Ratna Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd. for the NH-29 Two-Lane Kohima–Jessami Road Package-II project, citing prolonged delays, inadequate progress and severe hardships faced by commuters.

In a representation to the Executive Director (Projects), NHIDCL Regional Office, Kohima, the CSU said the project, originally scheduled for completion on January 4, 2026, had failed to meet its contractual deadline. Although an extension was granted until September 24, 2026, the Union claimed that overall physical progress remained at only 44.30%.

The Union said the road is a vital lifeline for people travelling to and from Phek, Kiphire and Meluri districts, with the continuing deterioration affecting students, patients, government employees, traders and other daily commuters.

The CSU further stated that a six-point agreement was signed among the Union, NHIDCL and the EPC contractor on June 22, 2026, to facilitate completion of the project. However, it alleged that the contractor continued to lack adequate machinery and manpower, while maintenance of the road remained inadequate.

According to the Union, joint inspections conducted on July 13 and August 4 failed to show substantial visible progress, with several stretches continuing to remain in deplorable and, in places, unmotorable condition. It said commuters have been stranded for hours and that accidents have occurred due to the poor condition and lack of proper maintenance.

In the representation signed by Povozo Soho, President, CSU and Rhilo Chiero, General Secretary, CSU, the CSU maintained that the issue had gone beyond a contractual delay and had become a serious public concern, causing daily hardship to thousands of people dependent on the highway.

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The Union, therefore, demanded that no further EoT be granted to M/s Ratna Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd. beyond the existing extension period. It also called for immediate restoration of vulnerable and severely damaged stretches and daily maintenance across the project corridor to ensure safe and uninterrupted movement.

The CSU warned that granting another extension despite what it termed prolonged failure, inadequate progress and repeated non-compliance would be viewed seriously and could compel the Union to initiate appropriate democratic and lawful action in the larger public interest.

The Union urged NHIDCL to take immediate corrective measures, stating that the travelling public should not be subjected to further uncertainty and hardship.