From Our Correspondent
Tura, Sep 30: Delay in executing the construction of the NH-62 has prompted a letter to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma listing issues and concerns pertaining to the national highway which links major parts of Garo Hills while urging the chief minister to expedite the work.
The road begins in Dudhnoi, Assam snakes through most parts of East and South Garo Hills before meeting up with the NH-51 at Dalu.
Irked by the delay in the construction work of the national highway, the Achik Holistic Awakening Movement (AHAM) in its letter to the chief minister stated that despite the project being declared to be funded by the centre more than a year ago, the DPR is still under review, as per the RTI reply received by them.
‘We 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,” AHAM president Georgeprince Ch Momin said.
The organisation pointed out that the delay in the road project will hinder movement along the national highway which serves as an important route.
They further warned that the delay could lead to traffic congestion and safety issues as the movement of coal trucks during the peak season leaves most of the road blocked.
“Many sections of the road is in terrible condition and has meant that businesses and transport incurs high costs. This has been leading to low margin prices even for high value products. The delay will only add to their woes. The delay also means cost overruns,” he added.
The organisation has also asked the CM to include local NGOs and not those from the national level to understand the local environmental concerns including increased pollution from construction machinery and the disruption of local ecosystems.
They added that till date none of the roads in Garo Hills have seen local NGOs being taken into confidence.
The current situation of the road, the NGO said, was also a concern for medical emergencies with many losing their lives due to extremely bad road.
AHAM added that given the frustration of the local community in the road delay, a detailed explanation should be provided as well as a timeline for the execution of the project and involve all aspects.
‘The people of the region deserve a functioning and safe road network, and it is disheartening to see this project languish in delays’.