n this undated handout photo released by the Chungtia Students’ Union, the construction site of the 50-bedded Integrated AYUSH Hospital at Sabangya, Mokokchung, is seen ‘sealed.’ (Photo Courtesy: CSU)
Mokokchung, September 2 (MExN): The Chungtia Students’ Union (CSU) has expressed strong concern over the delay and alleged deficiencies in the construction of the 50-bedded Integrated AYUSH Hospital at Sabangya, Mokokchung District.
The Union highlighted that, according to RTI findings, a total of Rs 442.91 lakh has been sanctioned till date to the Medical Engineering Division from the AYUSH section for the project.
Work orders dated March 5, 2019 and July 20, 2023 were issued to KC Infra Projects Pvt Ltd for the construction of the ground floor and installation of water supply and sanitation within stipulated periods of 24 months and 6 months respectively, it maintained.
However, the Union pointed out that despite the passage of more than six years since the initial work order, only 65% of the construction has been completed.
“We express our disappointment over this prolonged delay which has left an essential hospital incomplete and unable to serve the people in need,” stated the CSU in an ultimatum served to the Principal Director Health & Family Welfare, Nagaland.
The CSU further claimed that deficiencies in workmanship have been observed in the ongoing construction, raising “serious concerns” about the structural integrity and safety of the building.
“Even if the construction is completed, compromised quality may lead to premature deterioration or potential failure, thereby posing significant risks to public safety,” it cautioned.
“Even if the construction is completed, the compromised quality may lead to premature deterioration or potential failure, thereby posing significant risks to public safety and to all prospective users of the hospital facilities,” it cautioned.
Accordingly, the Union demanded that all construction activities cease immediately until a Joint Technical Inspection is conducted in the presence of DoHFW technical personnel.
The inspection, it said, must include tests such as Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity, Rebound Hammer, and Core Cut Sampling to verify construction quality, and be carried out within 10 days from the date of the ultimatum.
The CSU maintained that in the absence of such technical tests, any assessment made by the Union regarding the structural soundness of the hospital “shall be considered final and binding.”
It further warned that if the inspection or assessments reveal substandard construction, the Union would be compelled to pursue “further courses of action” and would not be held responsible for the consequences.
Meanwhile, an undated handout photo released by the CSU showed the construction site being ‘sealed’ by the Union.
