Chakhesang Students’ Union suspends protest for 15 days after NHIDCL assurance

KOHIMA — The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) on Thursday announced a temporary suspension of its ongoing agitation against the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) for a period of 15 days.

This decision was made following assurances from the general manager, Project Management Unit (PMU) of NHIDCL at Pfutsero, regarding some key concerns raised by the union in its ultimatums. On October 21, the union had sealed the PMU office as part of its agitation.

Previously: Chakhesang Students’ Union seals NHIDCL office in Pfutsero as ultimatum expires

On Thursday, the CSU acknowledged receiving a letter from NHIDCL, dated October 23, assuring that the latter was closely supervising the contractor’s work, and instructions have been issued to expedite the progress.

It also informed that the contractor has initiated the required maintenance work, which is expected to be completed within 15 days.

However, the CSU reminded that it will closely monitor the progress of the NHIDCL and if it fails to meet the agreed-upon timelines or deliver on its assurances, the union is prepared to resume its democratic protest to ensure accountability.

It may be mentioned that the CSU’s protest was primarily focused on delays in infrastructure projects and safety concerns of commuters along the Kohima-Jessami road (package-II), particularly between Chakhabama and Kikruma. The construction project is being executed by M/s Ratna Infrastructure Projects Pvt. Ltd.

According to reliable sources, as per the contract agreement, the overall period for the completion of the project is until January 4, 2026.

However, as per PMU Pfütsero NHIDCL, the contractor has only achieved a physical progress of 3.70%, while financial progress remained at 0% as of October 8.