NONGPOH, Aug 27: The Ri-Bhoi Peoples Council (RBPC), under the leadership of President Jayson Lennox Nongrum, has submitted a formal letter to Ri-Bhoi District Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, bringing to light several critical issues within the district. The concerns centre around the safety of the Lailad bridge, the long-standing issue of unpaid bills for vehicles requisitioned during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the deteriorating conditions of the Nongpoh Town Shopping Complex.
The RBPC voiced concerns about the Lailad bridge, highlighting that it is at risk due to the frequent passage of heavy-loaded vehicles that far exceed its load-bearing capacity. The bridge, designed to handle a maximum of 9 metric ton (MT) as stated by the Executive Engineer of PWD (Roads) Nongpoh Division, is reportedly being used by vehicles carrying loads between 20 to 30 MT. The council warned that this could compromise the structural integrity of the bridge, leading to potential disaster.
Although the Deputy Commissioner issued an order on August 22, 2024, addressing road safety and infrastructure issues, the RBPC noted that it did not specifically mention the Lailad bridge.
In addition to concerns about the bridge, the RBPC addressed the issue of unpaid bills for vehicles requisitioned during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the council, 10 vehicle owners who provided essential services during the crisis are still awaiting payments totaling Rs 26.20 lakh. The prolonged delay in disbursing these funds has placed significant financial strain on the vehicle owners, many of whom rely on daily earnings.
The RBPC’s letter also highlighted the worsening condition of the Nongpoh Town Shopping Complex, which was inaugurated over a decade ago but has since fallen into neglect. The majority of rooms within the complex remain vacant, and basic amenities such as water, electricity, and sanitation are severely lacking. The council criticised the poor sanitation facilities, with toilets either closed or unusable, and noted that the deteriorating roof allows water to flood the complex during the monsoon season.
The RBPC also expressed concern over unethical practices within the complex, particularly the subletting of rooms at exorbitant rates by some shopkeepers, which they believe hinders opportunities for genuine entrepreneurs. Furthermore, the parking area has reportedly become a hotspot for filth and illegal activities, tarnishing the image of Nongpoh as the district headquarters.
It has urged the DC to conduct a spot inspection of the Nongpoh Town Shopping.
