The Achik Holistic Awakening Movement (AHAM) has expressed concerns over the delay in the execution of the construction works for the NH 62 from Dudhnoi-Rongjeng-Baghmara-Dalu in Garo Hills region.
Pointing out that the project was initiated with the promise of improving infrastructure and to boost economy, AHAM president, Georgeprince Ch. Momin in a letter to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said, the continuous delay have caused inconvenience, safety hazards, fatal medical emergencies and economic losses to the residents and businesses of the region.
“I understand that construction projects can face unforeseen challenges and setbacks, but the extent and duration of the delays in this particular project have been unreasonable and unacceptable,” he said.
Momin said a year since the project was declared to have funded by the Centre, it seems to have not move an inch as PIL reports shows that even the detailed project report is still under review.
Underlining the issues and concerns that has brought about by the delay in execution the work, AHAM said since the road can contribute one of the highest revenue for the state, as it runs through the coal belts of the state connecting Dudhnoi for the domestic supply and Gasuapara L.C and Dalu L.C for the international exports of coal and other products, the delay undermines the livelihood of the people in the region.
He said the delay in the execution of the project will also lead to traffic congestion, loss in businesses to the local entrepreneurs due to high costs in transportation, delays in supplies, loss of products (perishable) during transports, low price value of high value products and others.
Furthermore, he said there are environmental concerns to the project, which local NGOs need to be involved to look into these concerns like increased pollution from construction machinery and the disruption of local ecosystems.
“The delays in the project execution have resulted in significant cost overruns, which we, as taxpayers, are bearing the brunt of. It is essential therefore, that we receive an explanation for the delay in the execution of this project,” Momin said.
AHAM also said that the pathetic conditions of the Baghmara – Dalu road has impacted medical emergencies leading to loss of lives, especially pregnant women.
Furthermore, the organisation wants the state government to improve its communication strategies to keep the community informed about project updates and milestones. “Effective communication is crucial to manage expectations and reduce frustration within the community as there has been a high aspiration from the people of the region with surveys, acquisitions and negotiations already on the prep step yet with nothing visibility on the ground as well as on the DPR,” the organisation added.
