Shillong: The Meghalaya High Court has ordered the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to finish improvement work on the Jowai-Ratacherra section of NH-6 and submit a completion report by August 18.
During a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) hearing on Wednesday (June 18), the court noted that as of the last Division Bench hearing on April 16, 2025, 67% of the first 51 km sector (Jowai to Wahiajer) and 73% of the second 51.255 km sector (Wahiajer to Ratacherra) had been completed. The court had previously adjourned the hearing, expecting a completion report by June 18.
However, NHAI’s advocate, Shoumen Sengupta, informed the court that progress was slower than anticipated due to adverse weather conditions.
He stated that 75% of the first sector and 80% of the second sector are now complete, requesting additional time for the full report.
The project, divided between two contractors, shows mixed progress rates. Purvanchal Buildtech Pvt. Ltd., handling the 51-kilometre Jowai to Wahiajer section, has completed 75 per cent of the work. Meanwhile, Dhar Construction Company, responsible for the 51.255-kilometre Wahiajer to Ratacherra stretch, has achieved 80 per cent completion.
These figures represent a modest improvement from April 16, when the court last reviewed the project.
The court acknowledged the weather-related challenges affecting construction activities across the region.
After considering these factors, the court extended the deadline and directed NHAI to file the final report by August 18.
“Considering the submissions made and also taking into account the present weather conditions, we grant time to NHAI till 18th August, 2025 to file a completion report,” the court stated.
The court has appointed advocate S Panthi as amicus curiae to monitor the project’s progress.
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The bench has directed the amicus curiae to “closely observe the progress made and file a counter report, if necessary” by the August deadline. The matter is scheduled for hearing on August 20, 2025.
