Shillong: The Meghalaya High Court ordered the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited to fix the crumbling Jowai-Ratacherra section of NH-6. Chief Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice W. Diengdoh issued the directive during a hearing for PIL 11/2022. NHIDCL took control of the 102.255-km stretch, spanning km 69.200 to 173.200, on July 21.
Two contractors who finished the road in late 2025 remain on the hook for repairs under a three-year Defect Liability Period. NHIDCL issued a final notice demanding they fill potholes and make the road safe. The agency warned that if the contractors do not start work within 15 days, they will hire a third party to do the job at the original contractors' expense. Regarding the accountability of those responsible, the court stated, "NHAI has been given three weeks to file an affidavit on action against the contractors and any erring officers."
Permanent repairs for damaged Pavement Quality Concrete panels and the bituminous surface must begin once the monsoon ends. The project has a firm deadline of December 2026. NHIDCL is already seeking bids for alternative maintenance to cover their bases. The court will revisit this case on September 15.
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