SHILLONG, June 22: A day after a massive landslide washed away a portion of the Shillong-Dawki Road, the state BJP on Monday demanded an inquiry into the spate of landslides along the under-construction road.
A significant portion of the Shillong-Dawki Road near Laitlyngkot was washed away, intensifying concerns over the project’s safety and execution.
Speaking to the media, BJP Spokesperson Mariahom Kharkrang called for a thorough probe to determine the exact causes of the frequent landslides.
“We must know whether the excavation was done properly and also whether the company executing the work have the expertise to work in hilly areas,” he said.
Kharkrang noted that expertise used in plain areas may not suit the steep mountainous terrain here. He recalled past landslides on the same road that had even led to loss of lives and urged the government and executing agencies to take corrective measures for early completion of the road without further harm to people.
Locals have blamed the contractor, YFC Projects Pvt. Ltd.–ACE Construction (joint venture), alleging that dumped earth, stones, and construction debris blocked natural streams and culverts, causing water overflow and embankment erosion.
Public urged to stay away from landslide sites
Meanwhile, the SDO of Pynursla issued a public advisory to all residents of villages under Pynursla C&RD Block to refrain from approaching or gathering near the landslide sites.
The advisory warned that the area remains unstable and may pose serious risk to life, safety and property due to possibility of further landslides, falling debris, ground collapse or other hazards.
Locals have been advised to avoid the Laitlyngkot-Lyngkyrdem route and use alternative roads through Pynursla-Dawki-Amlarem or Pynursla-Nongjri-Sohra for safer commute.
