Urgent Update: HC Kohima Bench Demands Contractor’s Appearance with Penalty for Meluri Road Projects | MorungExpress
Road Construction Delays in Phek District: Contractor Summoned by High Court
Kohima | July 24 – The Gauhati High Court Kohima Bench has mandated the personal appearance of a contractor following their failure to meet project deadlines and seek further extensions for two road projects in Meluri division, Phek district. The court also levied a Rs 20,000 fine on M/S Rhino Construction and Agency to be paid within three days, linked to an Interlocutory Application (IA) related to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL).
The projects in question involve the construction of roads from Lephori to Molhe (26 kms) and Akhen to Star Lake (15 kms). Despite a prior June 14 order requiring completion by June 30, the contractor requested an extension until December 31, 2024, citing "changed circumstances."
Justices Kakheto Sema and Budi Habung have directed the contractor to appear in person on July 31 to justify the extension request. The bench indicated that any extension would hinge upon the validity of the contractor’s reasons.
During the latest hearing, petitioners accused both the contractor and state officials of providing misleading information and showing negligible progress since the PIL’s filing in 2020. The court was reminded that Rs 30 crore was sanctioned in 2014, with completion falsely certified in January 2014. Additional funds of Rs 15 crore each were allocated in 2017 and 2018 without tangible progress.
In response to allegations, the Nagaland Government noted disciplinary action against the Executive Engineer, PWD (R&B), Phek Division for issuing the false completion certificate. However, the government’s action—holding back a one-year annual increment—was criticized by Chief Justice Vijay Bishnoi for its leniency.
The situation highlights concerns of accountability and effective project management in infrastructural developments within Phek district. Further court proceedings will determine the course of action for completion and rectify ongoing delays.
Original Story https://www.morungexpress.com/meluri-road-projects-hc-kohima-bench-orders-contractors-appearance-imposes-penalty
Category : Nagaland
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