Under pressure for the slow progress of the construction of the Damra–Bajengdoba road in North Garo Hills contractors for the project, Badri Rai Company (BRC) yesterday stated that the work on the road was on schedule and would be completed before the time provided.
Speaking on behalf of the company, Bhanu Prakash, one of the site engineers said that currently earth work on the road was on and would be completed most likely by January next year.
“After the earthwork is completed we will begin metalling the road before the road is completed. We are sure we will be able to complete the project within the stipulated time,” said Prakash.
Residents including the TMC MLA from Mendipathar, Marthon Sangma, have criticized the slow progress of the road construction even going to the extent of asking for the contractors to give up work if they were not interested in doing it.
The current road will be redone with an increase of 1 metre on each side of the road bringing the total road to 5.5 metres from its present 3.5 metres. Another 1 metre one each side would also be worked on making the road at least 7.5 metres in breadth.
Currently earthwork on at least 12 kms of the same road is still pending with the Damra to Damas section not even touched. The total road length is 35.8 kms.
“We have enough labourers to complete the work (50-60) and heavy machines to take care of earthwork. A stone quarry with all permissions has been contracted to supply stones and chips for the construction,” added Prakash on the current labour situation.
The company had earlier been accused of not having enough machines and labourers to take up the project, something they said was a thing of the past.
Despite the assurances provided by the company of the work being completed within schedule, the TMC MLA expressed apprehension.
“If they are serious about it, they should show it through their work. Just look at the condition of our road. It’s getting worse by the day. They need to understand the situation and bring relief to the people of the district by completing the work well within time. It will save them money as well as save us the pain,” said Marthon when contacted.
