KSU issues 7-day notice to PWD over road projects

DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 12 (MExN): The Khiamniungan Students’ Union (KSU) has issued a seven-day notice to the Public Works Department (Roads & Bridges), demanding clarification on the status of the Chendang Saddle–Pangsha (Phase-II) road project and the Noklak–Thonoknyu road via Sanglao.A press release from the KSU expressed dissatisfaction with the department’s response under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, stating that it had failed to provide satisfactory clarification on the implementation and present status of the two projects. The union raised concerns over prolonged delays, stoppage of work and the reported closure of the projects, citing conflicting explanations regarding land compensation, alleged intervention by an organisation, suspension of work during the COVID-19 pandemic and the discontinuation of the Non-Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) scheme.According to the KSU, the department’s reply dated September 28 attributed the closure or discontinuation of the project to the discontinuation of the NLCPR scheme by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER). However, the contractor reportedly attributed the stoppage of work in 2022 to unresolved land compensation issues.The union has sought an explanation reconciling the two accounts, along with village-wise details of land compensation assessed, sanctioned, disbursed and outstanding, supported by relevant official records.It has also demanded clarification on the identity of the non-governmental organisation or other organisation allegedly linked to the stoppage of work. Referring to statements reportedly made by the Chief Engineer, PWD (R&B), and the contractor on July 12, 2024, the KSU sought details of the circumstances, relevant records and any inquiry or action taken.On the reported suspension of work during the COVID-19 pandemic, the union has asked the department to specify the exact period of interruption, the reasons for the suspension, the authority responsible and the government orders or records supporting its explanation.The KSU further demanded an evidence-based account of the circumstances leading to the reported closure or discontinuation of both projects, clarification of the responsibilities of the authorities and contractor, and details of corrective measures and a definite timeline for completing the outstanding works, subject to necessary approvals and funding.The department has been asked to submit a satisfactory, point-wise written response with supporting documents within seven days of receiving the formal notice.  “Failure to respond within the stipulated period, or the submission of an incomplete, evasive, or unsupported reply, will compel the Union to consider appropriate democratic and lawful measures before the competent authorities,” the statement said.The union also held the state government and the concerned department accountable for addressing the issues, warning that continued inaction could intensify public frustration.