NHIDCL assures repairs, slope protection works
Morung Express News
Kohima | April 1
The Gauhati High Court Kohima Bench (GHCKB) has closed a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the condition of the Mao Gate–Kohima road project on National Highay-2 observing that the stretch is now in “road worthy condition” and no longer requires continuous judicial monitoring.
The decision follows submissions and assurances by the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) on ongoing repairs, restoration of sinking zones, and proposed slope protection works.
However, it is observed that the closure of the instant Public Interest Litigation shall not affect or preclude any citizens from again approaching the Court, if necessity arises, in respect of the road stretch.
A Division Bench comprising Justice Devashis Baruah and Justice Yarenjungla Longkumer passed the order on March 25 after reviewing affidavits and submissions from multiple parties, including the NHIDCL.
According to an affidavit filed by NHIDCL, repair work on a 100-metre stretch near Phesama/Kisama (Chainage 191+950 to 192+080) has been completed, and the road is presently smooth and motorable.
The agency also informed the Court that steps are underway to address seven identified sinking zones, with three priority sections already under repair through five issued work orders.
These ongoing works, it stated, are not affecting traffic movement.
The affidavit further assured that landslide clearance during the monsoon season would be carried out promptly to prevent disruption and maintain traffic-worthy conditions for commuters.
Further, the NHIDCL submitted that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) is under preparation for slope protection and pavement strengthening along the existing Kohima–Mao road, with the final report expected by June 30.
The Court noted that the PIL had been initiated suo motu on March 2, 2022, taking cognisance of the “deplorable” condition of the road stretch.
In light of the improvements and submissions placed on record, the Bench held that continued monitoring was no longer necessary. While closing the PIL, the Court also left open the option for citizens to approach it again, if necessary.
Modifies ruling on Hindi teachers
In a separate matter heard by the same Bench on March 25, the Court modified a previous single-judge order concerning the training timeline for Hindi teachers in Nagaland, clarifying that two departmental circulars dated March 15 and August 23, 2023 seeking submission of educational documents were “mere reminders” and did not curtail the prescribed grace period.
The case arose after the State Government challenged a February 16, 2026 judgment that had quashed the 2023 circulars.
The State, through the Additional Advocate General, submitted that the circulars were issued to ensure compliance and prevent teachers from later claiming ignorance of training requirements. The State Government further categorically assured the Court that the government would adhere to its September 15, 2021 notification granting teachers time until 2027 to meet norms set by the National Council for Teacher Education.
Accepting the submission, the Division Bench observed that since the 2027 deadline remains unchanged, the circulars did not prejudice teachers but served as an administrative measure to ensure compliance.
The appeal was accordingly disposed of, with the Court maintaining the 2027 deadline while permitting the State to continue its documentation process.
