The pathetic condition of newly constructed roads under SHDP scheme, Umarkote-Papadahandi-Yerla (PUY), is a common sight. There are allegations that the PWD contractors engaged in the work openly flout road construction norms and are not maintaining the quality of the work. A large portion of the roads has been constructed as per the wish of the contractors and not according to the specifications laid down by the PWD, alleged Jyotindar Swain, a denizen.
local residents of Sanabharandi village claimed that though a road in their locality was constructed only a couple of weeks back, it did not look to be new and the road users did not get any satisfaction. The quality was compromised to such an extent that the new road was no better than its earlier shape.
Similar is the problem with Umarkote-Raighar road. However, the PWD Executive Engineer denied having received any complaint from the public in this connection.
He stated that if there was evidence of sub-standard construction of the road, the concerned contractors would have to repair the road on their own. “If the condition of the road deteriorates within the stipulated period after the construction, the contractors have to own up responsibility and legal action would be taken if he did not repair the road,” he added.