During the opening of the Fifth Session of the Fourteenth Nagaland Legislative Assembly, MLA Kevipodi Sophie expressed serious concerns about delays and the deteriorating condition of the NH-29 highway from Lerie to Mao Gate. Sophie emphasized that the state government needs to exercise greater control over the National Highways Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) instead of letting the agency operate with unchecked authority granted by the Central Government.

Sophie raised these issues in a session where he questioned the National Highways department about the project’s status. Deputy Chief Minister and Minister-in-charge for PWD (National Highways) TR Zeliang explained that the Technical Fact-Finding Committee has not yet submitted its findings because NHIDCL has not provided necessary documents. Zeliang noted that the project, which is vital for interstate and Myanmar connectivity, has faced ongoing challenges, including land disputes and a pending Supreme Court case related to a High Court order for a six-month completion.

Zeliang added that the Fact-Finding Technical Team had requested important documents from NHIDCL three times, but the agency cited ongoing court proceedings as the reason for their non-disclosure.

Sophie criticized the extension of the project’s deadline from April 2022 to March 2023, pointing out that the road remains in poor condition. He highlighted frequent breakdowns and landslides due to inadequate drainage, which negatively impacts students and those needing medical attention. Sophie argued that the road’s condition has worsened since NHIDCL took over and called for a review of the agreement with the central government to address these issues. He stressed the need for a full two-lane road and bridge reconstruction to ensure safety and stability.

Er. Kropol Vitsu, MLA and Advisor for Prison, Printing and Stationery, supported Sophie’s concerns, particularly about the 13 km stretch of the highway that remains in a poor state. Vitsu expressed frustration with the lack of attention from Delhi authorities and questioned whether their case had been inadequately presented. He urged the National Highways Department of Nagaland to focus on maintaining and completing the highway, disputing claims that landowner complaints are a significant issue and warning that contractors might exploit delays if court cases are persistently cited.