Urgent Repairs Needed for Darrang District's Khetachar-Khajuabeel Road

Concerns Over Deteriorating Road Conditions

Mangaldai, Dec 6: The deteriorating state of the Khetachar-Khajuabeel road in the Dalgaon LAC of Darrang district has raised significant concerns among daily travelers. This crucial route, part of the Mangaldai-Dalgaon division, links numerous villages in the Shyampur, Arimari, Kopati, and Dhula gaon panchayats, facilitating access to essential services such as the Shyampur Police Station, Magurmari Primary Health Centre, the headquarters of the 3rd Assam Police battalion, and various educational institutions.

Spanning over 13 kilometers, this road serves as the main connection between the char areas and NH 15, accommodating daily traffic that includes school children, farmers, and patients. Local farmers depend on this route to transport their goods to nearby markets in Balugaon and Kharupetia.

Unfortunately, the unpaved gravel section of the road has deteriorated significantly due to prolonged delays in construction. Commuters are reportedly forced to use tractors or walk, enduring a dusty environment that poses health risks. The situation worsens during the monsoon season, adversely impacting education, healthcare, and livelihoods in the area.

The road's construction was included in the PMGSY Phase (III) for 2022-23, with an estimated budget exceeding Rs 7 crore. According to the information board, the contractor commenced work in September 2022, but locals claim actual work only began in April 2024. Although the project was slated for completion by September 1, 2023, it remains unfinished after more than two years.

Residents have accused the contractor of sporadic work and halting progress for dubious reasons. Commuters describe their experience on this road as torturous.

Local inhabitants have criticized the State Lok Nirman (Road) department for their negligence and failure to address the delays and poor quality of the work completed thus far.

Despite numerous appeals to the contractor, department officials, and relevant authorities, residents report no visible improvements. This situation underscores the difficulties in timely execution and oversight of PMGSY projects in remote regions, as expressed by a concerned citizen.

The community is now calling for immediate action from higher authorities to ensure the swift completion of the project and accountability for the negligent engineers and contractors.