A spot inspection conducted by the Lotha Hoho (LH) on January 21 has revealed serious lapses in both progress and workmanship in the ongoing Nagaland Foothill Road construction under the Baghty Division in Wokha district.
The inspection covered the 38.6-kilometre stretch from Merapani to Doyang Bridge up to the Governor’s Camp and was carried out in the presence of representatives from the Lotha Lower Range Public Organisation (LLRPO), Ralan Area Lotha Hoho (RALH), Nagaland Foothill Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC), officials of the Public Works Department (R&B), bridge contractors, and members of the Agrive Villagers Forum from the Champang–Merapani area.
Although the project was scheduled for completion by December 8, 2025, it was learnt during the inspection that the PWD (R&B) department has granted a three-month extension, setting March 2026 as the new deadline. Despite this, the Lotha Hoho observed that substantial portions of the work remain incomplete, raising concerns over the feasibility of meeting the revised timeline.
Of the 152 culverts planned along the stretch, only 48 have been completed so far, leaving nearly 100 still pending. The Hoho described the condition of the earthwork along the entire stretch as poor and far below acceptable standards.
A major safety concern flagged during the inspection was the absence of wing walls for bridges and culverts. The Hoho warned that without these protective structures, there is a high risk of damage or washout once the monsoon season begins.
At a meeting held in Hayiyan village, representatives of the five bridge construction firms stated that their respective works have been completed to the extent possible and that they are now awaiting the supply of steel structures from the department. They assured that once the materials are handed over—expected sometime next week—the bridges would be completed and made operational without delay.
Public bodies present during the inspection echoed the concerns raised by the Lotha Hoho. LLRPO President T. Amos Kikon stated that the general public is unhappy with the standard of workmanship, particularly in earth cutting. He also expressed concern over the durability of the Hume pipes being used, stating that they may not withstand regular heavy traffic.
Yanmhon Area Public Organisation President Thungdemo Tungoe stated that his organisation has carried out repeated inspections since May 2025, amounting to 38 visits so far. Despite continuous advisories and pressure on both the department and contractors, he noted that the quality of work has shown little improvement.
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Responding to the observations, Junior Engineer, PWD (R&B), Baghty Division, Yanbemo Ngullie acknowledged that the original contract period has expired and confirmed that an additional three months has been granted. He stated that efforts are being made to accelerate the pace of work and maintained that construction is being executed in accordance with the DPR.
Addressing the media after the inspection, Lotha Hoho vice chairman Elis Jungio described the overall condition of the project as unsatisfactory. He pointed out that the delay has already exceeded the originally stipulated timeframe and expressed doubt over whether the remaining work can realistically be completed within the two months left.
Jungio stated that the Lotha Hoho will conduct close and regular monitoring of the project and cautioned that failure to complete the work within the extended period would compel the Hoho to take appropriate measures.
Representatives of the NFHRCC, while appreciating the initiative taken by the Lotha Hoho, stated that progress in other divisions has been comparatively better and more systematic. However, they described the situation in the Baghty Division as alarming, noting that less than half of the work has been completed even after a year.
They also raised concern over the absence of senior departmental officers during inspections. While acknowledging the consistent presence of the Junior Engineer, they pointed out that the division remains severely understaffed. Despite repeated verbal appeals and a formal request for additional personnel, no response has been received, they said, adding that the staffing shortage has placed excessive strain on the existing workforce.
