Kikruma, Nagaland – Frustration over the protracted delay in the development of a crucial national highway has boiled over, as the Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) initiated an indefinite blockade on National Highway 29 in the Kikruma area of Nagaland’s Phek district today, May 12th.
The student body has taken the drastic step of obstructing the movement of vehicles belonging to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and its contracted firm, which are responsible for the 29-kilometer Kohima-Jessami National Highway (Package 2) project.
According to CSU President Pfhulo Sara, the blockade stems from the “failure” of NHIDCL and its executing agency to address a series of pressing demands. These demands include the immediate repair of hazardous potholes, the removal of landslide debris that obstructs traffic, the implementation of proper drainage systems to prevent further deterioration, and a visible acceleration of the overall construction work.
Sara conveyed to PTI that despite numerous appeals to the relevant authorities and a recent protest rally organized by the union, both NHIDCL and its contractor have failed to honor their commitments. This inaction has caused significant hardship and inconvenience to the general public and daily commuters who rely on this vital artery. With no response forthcoming from the involved agencies, the CSU felt compelled to resort to the blockade as a means of demanding action.
The students’ organization further emphasized the imminent danger posed by the deteriorating road conditions, particularly with the approaching monsoon season expected to exacerbate the existing problems. The Kohima-Jessami highway serves as a critical lifeline for the residents of Kikruma, Phek, Meluri, and Kiphire districts, making its current state of disrepair a matter of grave concern for the region.
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