Protest Targets NHIDCL and Contractor Over Poor Progress on Vital Nagaland Highway
Kohima, May 12 — The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) has launched an indefinite blockade on National Highway 29 in Nagaland's Phek district, protesting the persistent delay in developing a critical 29-km stretch of road under the Kohima-Jessami National Highway project (Package 2).The protest, which began on Monday in the Kikruma area, targets the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and its contractor. The CSU has barred the movement of vehicles belonging to both the NHIDCL and the executing agency as part of its agitation.
CSU president Pfhulo Sara said the decision was driven by the “failure” of both agencies to address a series of demands, despite repeated representations and a recent protest rally. "Despite all the representations submitted to the authorities concerned and a recent protest rally, both agencies failed to fulfil their commitments, resulting in immense inconvenience to commuters and the public," Sara stated.
Students Demand Urgent Repairs and Faster Progress
The students' body has outlined several urgent demands, including:- Immediate repair of potholes
- Clearance of debris from landslides
- Installation of proper drainage systems
- Acceleration of construction work on the road
Critical Route Connecting Four Districts
The Kohima-Jessami highway is a key corridor linking the state capital with Phek, Meluri, Kiphire, and Kikruma. The ongoing delay in road development has severely affected daily travel and transportation in the region, escalating public frustration.The CSU said it will continue the blockade until concrete action is taken by the NHIDCL and its contractor.
