Kohima: The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) has declared the commencement of the third phase of its protest today, May 17, escalating their agitation over the protracted delays and substandard work plaguing the 29-kilometre Kohima-Jessami road in Nagaland’s Phek district.
Citing the “dilapidated and unsafe” condition of the crucial highway, which serves as a vital artery connecting Kohima to Phek, Meluri, and Kiphire, the apex student body expressed deep concern over the immense difficulties faced by daily commuters.
Previously, the CSU had taken action by restricting the movement of vehicles associated with the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and the project’s EPC contractor, Ratna Infrastructure Project Private Ltd., in response to the prolonged neglect of this essential infrastructure.
Despite multiple written appeals and a formal ultimatum issued on May 2, the CSU asserts that there has been a conspicuous lack of tangible progress on the road project.
Their grievances culminated in a protest rally held on May 10 in Kikruma village, where the union vociferously condemned the shoddy execution of the construction work between Chakhabama and Kikruma within the Phek district.
Following a meeting held on Friday, the student body announced the suspension of the second phase of their agitation. However, they simultaneously confirmed that the third phase would begin on Saturday with black flag demonstrations, symbolizing their continued resistance and dissatisfaction.
“The CSU will persist in its agitation until its demands are met,” affirmed CSU president Pfhulo Sara, underscoring the union’s unwavering commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and the prompt completion of the long-overdue road project.
During the recently concluded second phase of their protest, the CSU had seized 13 vehicles belonging to NHIDCL and the EPC contractor, which were released earlier today.
The union has firmly reiterated its stance that further inaction on the critical road infrastructure will not be tolerated, reaffirming its dedication to the welfare of the public and the imperative need for infrastructure development in the region.
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