DIMAPUR, JULY 19 (MExN): The Western Sumi Youth Front (WSYF) has raised serious concerns over the non-completion of the NH 29 road project, which stretches from Central Jail to Atu Ghoki, Hozukhe, Niuland (Dzubza) river. The project, aimed at improving this crucial road, was awarded to M/S VIPE ENTERPRISE on March 16, 2022, with a contract price of Rs. 2434.79 lakhs, informed a press release from the WSYF. The initial completion deadline was April 15, 2023, but the project remains unfinished, it stated.
Despite an extension granted by the office of the Chief Engineer, PWD(R&B), Government of Nagaland, pushing the completion date to August 13, 2023, the firm failed to meet the new deadline. A subsequent undertaking by the contractor assured completion by November 30, 2023. As of May 22, 2024, the project's physical progress stands at 94.54%, while financial progress is at 89.60%.
The WSYF highlighted the significant impact of the delay on the local economy and living conditions. "The people have been eagerly waiting for the upgradation and improvement of the said road for the past several years," the press release stated. The road is vital for communication and economic growth, benefiting multiple districts including Niuland, Wokha, Tseminyu, and Kohima, it noted, and said that the delay has adversely affected vendors, entrepreneurs, and the general populace.
Civil societies have voiced their concerns over the delay, emphasizing its detrimental effects. "These concerns cannot be ignored or brushed aside and definitely merit consideration," the WSYF asserted. The organization directed M/S VIPE ENTERPRISE to expedite the work and complete it at the earliest, ensuring no compromise on quality and materials.
To ensure accountability, the Executive Engineer PWD(R&B) Dimapur Division has been instructed to monitor the project closely and submit weekly progress reports. The WSYF cautioned against the payment of the remaining balance without project completion. They warned, "Failing which the WSYF will resort to its own course of action to protect and safeguard the interest of the general public."
Condemns attempted murder in Niuland
In a separate incident, the WSYF expressed outrage over the attempted murder of one person by two persons, along with their accomplices. The WSYF stated that the incident occurred on March 9 in Zukihe Village, Niuland District. The front condemned this act of violence and urged law enforcement to investigate thoroughly and take appropriate legal action.
"This Barbaric Act of Cowardice and violence in an era where we are zealously striving for peace and progress cannot be tolerated," the WSYF declared. It called for the establishment of a police station in Khaghaboto Area to ensure peace and security. It also informed that the WSYF plans to conduct a bio-data collection drive of outsiders residing in Western Sumi areas to enhance vigilance.
Attack on auto driver
The WSYF has also condemned the attempted murder of an auto driver on March 18. It commended the Chumoukedima police for their swift action in apprehending the culprits and urge stringent punishment. The WSYF called on district auto drivers' unions to monitor registered drivers and maintain work ethics for the safety of citizens.
The organization has issued helpline numbers for immediate assistance during distress: 7005432649, 7357176969, and 8575352852.
In all these instances, the WSYF reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the welfare and safety of the community, emphasizing the need for timely project completion, stringent law enforcement, and vigilant monitoring of activities in the region.
