The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has called for an immediate inquiry into the execution and maintenance of National Highway projects in Nagaland, alleging poor workmanship, prolonged delays and negligence by the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).
In a strongly worded statement, NSF president Mteisuding and general secretary Kenilo Kent said the Dimapur-Kohima four-lane highway has deteriorated considerably over the past four to five years. The organisation alleged that maintenance work has been inadequate and that there is limited evidence of effective preparations to deal with problems during the monsoon.
The NSF has raised particular concern over the Medziphema-Peducha stretch of NH-29, describing it as hazardous because of damaged road surfaces, inadequate drainage, deteriorating side structures, poor slope protection and delays in restoration work.
According to the student body, the condition of the road becomes more difficult during the monsoon and poses additional risks to motorists at night. The NSF alleged that people have died and others suffered serious injuries in rockfalls and road-related incidents, which it attributed to alleged negligence on the part of NHIDCL and its contractors.
The organisation has also questioned the issuance of a Completion Certificate for Package-II of the Dimapur-Kohima four-lane highway project. It alleged that several works were incomplete and that deficiencies remained visible even after the certificate was issued.
The NSF has urged the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to conduct an immediate inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the issuance of the certificate and assess whether the project met the required standards.
The Federation also pointed out that the project is currently under a five-year Defect Liability Period (DLP), during which the implementing agency is responsible for rectifying defects. However, it alleged that several problems have not been adequately addressed.
These include collapsing side walls, inadequate drainage systems, poor slope protection, damaged road surfaces and shortcomings in road safety measures.
The NSF had previously raised concerns about highway safety in a statement issued on August 19. At the time, it flagged inadequate safety barriers, poor road furniture, insufficient reflective markers and a lack of adequate warning signs along the highway.
The latest demand comes amid continuing concerns over the condition of major highways in Nagaland, particularly vulnerable stretches that face additional pressure during the monsoon. The NSF has called for greater accountability in the implementation and maintenance of highway projects and urged authorities to take corrective measures to address the alleged deficiencies.
The organisation said proper maintenance, timely restoration and adequate safety measures are necessary to ensure that highway infrastructure serves its intended purpose and does not pose avoidable risks to road users.
