Nagaland Minister for PWD (Roads & Bridges) G. Kaito Aye has said he would personally inspect the Foothill Road stretch up to Naginimora following delays and quality concerns in the ongoing project. The minister’s statement came after show-cause notices were issued to two contractors—M/s JK Construction and M/s Chabou & Co—seeking explanations over alleged slow progress and execution issues.
Speaking to media persons on his arrival from Delhi at Dimapur airport, Kaito said the contractors had claimed that the road was in good condition, but added that the government would take a final decision only after a physical inspection of the entire stretch. He acknowledged that the project had experienced delays, noting that engagements during the winter season had affected progress to some extent. However, he stressed that the Foothill Road remains a priority project for the state government.
The minister said he has already directed the department concerned to closely monitor the work and would personally examine the condition of the road starting early Saturday morning. According to him, the inspection will help determine whether the delays were caused by land-related issues, local factors, or weak execution by the contractors. He added that further action would be decided after reviewing the contractors’ replies to the show-cause notices and the findings of the inspection.
Kaito also commented on external interventions, including concerns raised by hohos and landowners regarding road alignment. While appreciating the interest shown by different stakeholders, he said that excessive interventions sometimes slow down project execution. He emphasised that development work requires cooperation from all sides and that the department must be given adequate space to carry out its responsibilities efficiently.
Referring to the role of the Nagaland Foothill Road Coordination Committee, the minister said the department was working in coordination with the committee and held no bias against any group. He stated that the project was meant for the benefit of the people and that collective cooperation was essential for its timely completion.
