The Chakhroma Youth Organisation (CYO) along with Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO) jointly inspected the progress of work at NH-29 between Chathe River Bridge and New Chümoukedima on September 20. Upon inspection, the organisations found it unsatisfactory claiming the work as “on the snail paced progress of work and lack of quality workmanship”. In a press statement issued by its President Seyieneilhou Keyho, and General Secretary Visielhoulie Kuotsu, the CYO claimed that only six workers were seen working on the site.

“When the common public are suffering to a large extent due to this washed away road, taking uphill bypass road via New Chümoukedima, the lackadaisical nature of NHIDCL cannot be tolerated at this juncture,” stated the CYO

The CYO reminded that it had submitted a representation in the year 2021 addressing the same issue to the Chief Secretary, Government of Nagaland, conveying strong displeasure on the lack of quality workmanship between Chathe River Bridge and New Chümoukedima by NHIDCL. Through the representation, the CYO had urged for immediate government intervention to prevent potential disasters threatening public safety. Despite clear knowledge of the soil conditions, the authorities proceeded with widening the road using only earth fill, the CYO claimed,  neglecting the construction of a robust RCC retaining wall along the riverside. Consequently, with the onset of the monsoon, significant portions of the road were washed away.  “But sadly our representation letter was ignored in Toto by the government,” stated the CYO.

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“The CYO also wants to know the latest status of FIR filed against NHIDCL by the state government. Non-bailable arrest warrant should be issued to the NHIDCL, and they should be booked and prosecuted under relevant provisions of the law,” asserted the Organization.

It further appealed the district administration to allow all vehicles to ply through the narrow stretch of road (landslide area) at NH-29 with the help of traffic police personnel. “And if needed the CYO is willing to assist the traffic personnel by manning the road to allow free movement of vehicles from both sides,” it assured.

With the completion of the road likely to require 5-6 months due to inadequate manpower, the CYO had directed the concerned authority for additional man power and machineries so that restoration of the on-going work can be completed at the earliest.