The National People's Party (NPP) from Phek District has issued a strong condemnation of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) over the deteriorating state of the Kohima-Jessami road, particularly the Chakhaba-Kikruma stretch (Package II). The party has expressed outrage over the severe hardships faced by commuters, citing the contractor's inaction and NHIDCL's failure to address the crisis, despite repeated pleas.
In a press statement, the NPP highlighted that the condition of the road before the two-lane project was better, with occasional minor repairs needed during the rainy season. However, since the implementation of the two-lane road project, the situation has worsened dramatically. The once vital road, which served the people of Phek District effectively, is now in a deplorable state, causing significant disruption to daily life.
The party referred to previous press releases on May 8th and August 9th, 2024, where they had raised urgent concerns about the state of the road. They noted that NHIDCL had not only ignored these warnings but has also shown a blatant disregard for public safety, causing damage and risk to commuters.
Adding to the frustration, the NPP pointed out that the Phek District's Project Monitoring Group (PMG) had recommended the termination of the contractor's contract in an official order (Order No. DCPK/LR/2-LANE/GEN/1/2021/171) on June 13, 2024. However, NHIDCL failed to act on this recommendation, further aggravating the situation.
In a strongly worded demand, the NPP has called for:
1. The immediate termination of the contract with the current contractor.
2. Issuance of a fresh tender to ensure the work proceeds without further delay.
3. Immediate commencement of road maintenance work to prevent further suffering.
The party has warned that if these demands are not met, they will resort to democratic protests, demonstrations, or legal action against NHIDCL and the contractor. The NPP emphasized that they will escalate the matter until the responsible authorities are held accountable for the suffering endured by the people of Phek District.(pr)