The District Administration, National Highways Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL) and officials of the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor have agreed to accelerate construction along National Highway 29 (NH-29) between Kohima and Jessami. A review meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Kohima on August 25 assessed progress on the stretch linking Kohima with Phek and identified issues hampering the works. The session aimed to align timelines and responsibilities among stakeholders.

The meeting examined critical components including sinking zones, road maintenance and protection works, as well as granular sub-base (GSB), wet mix macadam (WMM), drainage, culverts and road shoulders. Officials reviewed current conditions of slopes and areas affected by subsidence and assessed requirements for remedial protection. Detailed sequencing for major layers and ancillary drainage works was considered to reduce delays and enhance durability.

Contractors committed to commence major granular sub-base, wet mix macadam and dense bituminous macadam (DBM) works from September 12 and to complete the identified works within the Kohima section by the first week of October 2026. NHIDCL officials indicated that mobilisation of plant and equipment would be accelerated and that progress would be measured against the contractor’s schedule. The administration requested a clear deployment plan for machinery, manpower and materials to avoid further slippage.

Deputy Commissioner Kohima B Henok Buchem, NCS, urged sensitivity to local considerations and public sentiment while executing the road project, noting its importance for regional connectivity. He instructed the contractor to ensure timely deployment and to coordinate with NHIDCL on necessary adjustments. The district administration assured continued support to resolve matters within its jurisdiction and said it would closely monitor progress against the timelines committed by the contractor.