The persistent issues with the repair and maintenance of National Highway 151, spanning from the AOC point in Karimganj, Assam, to Sutarkandi Port, have become a significant concern for local residents. District Congress president Rajat Chakraborty has expressed his frustration, urging Assam’s Chief Minister to blacklist contractors responsible for the substandard work.
Chakraborty claims a syndicate involving corrupt contractors, certain departmental authorities, and some elected officials has resulted in the neglect and deprivation of quality infrastructure in the region. Despite substantial funding, with approximately Rs 14 crore allocated for construction by Tussnial and Company of Badarpur under the Public Works Department (PWD) during 2021-22, complaints about poor workmanship have persisted from the start, often highlighted by media outlets.
An engineer with PWD, Abdul Haq Khan, previously dismissed these concerns, claiming satisfactory progress. However, the highway’s condition has recently worsened, suffering damage from heavy rains that have left large potholes and exposed rocks. The urgency has increased with the approach of Durga Puja, making the road’s state a pressing concern.
Currently, approximately Rs 20 crore has been designated for repair efforts. Yet, the ongoing work has been criticized as subpar, with reports suggesting contractors have applied only a superficial loom layer to the potholes. This inadequate repair has failed to withstand recent rains, leading to further deterioration.
This alleged inefficient use of government funds has heightened frustrations among local residents. Both the district administration and the PWD face criticism for inadequate oversight and inaction. As the community grapples with these ongoing challenges, the demand for accountability and improved infrastructure grows more urgent.
Original Story https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/video/nh-151-woes-congress-leader-in-karimganj-demands-action-against-corrupt-contractors-1101700-2024-10-03?utm_source=rssfeed
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