Karbook, Aug 17: The main road connecting Jatanbari–Karbook–Shilachhari has turned into a nightmare for daily commuters. The road’s metalling and carpeting have completely worn out, leaving behind large potholes. With every spell of rain, these potholes turn into waterlogged death traps, making travel extremely risky. Frequent accidents and increasing vehicle maintenance costs have added to the woes of drivers and passengers alike.
The responsibility of maintaining this stretch lies with the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). The road was handed over to NHIDCL from the state PWD, but despite being in charge for nearly two years, the central agency has not carried out any repair work. As a result, the PWD has also refrained from taking up repairs, leaving the road in a neglected and dilapidated condition.
Expressing his anger, Karbook MLA Sanjoy Manik Tripura came down heavily on NHIDCL, accusing its officials of “showing utter disregard even to the words of elected representatives.” He said, “NHIDCL keeps giving false assurances that work will begin soon, but nothing has been done so far. Their negligence has pushed thousands of commuters into endless suffering.”
The MLA further stated that he had spoken with the PWD and Rural Development Department and even attempted to allocate funds from his MLA area development fund for repair work. However, since the road officially falls under NHIDCL’s jurisdiction, no other department can intervene.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that local motor workers’ unions are considering launching a “Chakka Jam” (road blockade) protest in the coming days if the situation remains unchanged.
