Kohima, Nagaland, August 29, (HBTV): During the fifth session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly session in Kohima on August 29, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio voiced serious concerns at the persistent infrastructure challenges along National Highway 29 (NH29). He highlighted the numerous issues that have beset the highway over the years and the ongoing efforts to resolve these problems.
Rio pointed out that the commitment to upgrading NH29 only began in earnest during 2015-16.
"It is very unfortunate that we faced blockages during those periods," Rio remarked, emphasizing the delays in critical infrastructure projects during that time.
Expressing his disappointment at the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and other agencies, Rio recounted a recent meeting with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari.
In this meeting, the failures of the NH29 project were discussed, leading to the filing of criminal cases against contractors for substandard work.
"They are doing a horrible job," Rio stated, adding that Minister Gadkari supported the state’s decision to pursue legal action.
A particularly troubling incident occurred in the Pagala Pahar area, where a landslide struck exactly one year after the road's completion, damaging vehicles and, unfortunately, resulting in fatalities. Following consultations with the relevant departments, the state government decided to file criminal cases against the contractors responsible for the substandard construction. These cases are currently under investigation.
Rio mentioned that during a recent visit, NHIDCL officials admitted their failure to anticipate the challenging soil conditions and topography in the region. They have since committed to conducting a comprehensive scientific study and hiring a consultancy to guide future construction efforts. However, this process is expected to take at least a year, leaving the area at risk of further landslides and road failures.
Neiphiu Rio also criticized the use of substandard materials and construction techniques, particularly in the building of concrete retaining walls without proper reinforcement, which led to their collapse during the monsoon season.
"What technology? What engineering?" Rio questioned, expressing his frustration over the lack of quality control and oversight in the construction process.
Despite these issues, Rio acknowledged that there have been some improvements. The Public Works Department has constructed a bypass road, which is expected to be operational this season.
However, he emphasized the need for better coordination between NHIDCL and state agencies to ensure that immediate measures are taken to mitigate hazards and improve road safety.
As Nagaland prepares to host international events and upcoming festivals, Rio stressed the importance of both immediate and long-term solutions.
"We cannot just talk about long-term measures; immediate action is necessary," he asserted, urging the agencies in concern to honor their commitments and to deliver on their promises.
Concluding his remarks, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio warned that if the NHIDCL and the contractors continue to fail in their duties, further legal action would be pursued to ensure accountability.
"It is a very bad situation for us," Rio said, highlighting the urgency of addressing the issues as the state prepares for significant upcoming events.