Commissioner and secretary home and works & housing Temjen Toy, Thursday admitted that the works and housing (Roads & Bridges) department has not been able to maintain roads due to financial and other factors but at the same time, reminded public of their role in extending cooperation for the greater interest of all.
Speaking at a meeting at Niathu Resort, 7th Mile Dimapur, attended by deputy commissioner (DC), Dimapur, SDO (C), VCs and GBs of Purana Bazaar, Padhum Pukhuri, Diphupar ‘B’, Naharbari, Model Village, 5th Mile Dimapur, DNSU, Naga Women Hoho Dimapur, and chief engineer PWD (R&B) BRO, Zubza, he pointed out that the PWD (R&B) required Rs.250 crore annually for repair and maintenance of all the state highways but that it was not possible to get that fund out of Non Plan expenditure.
He also felt that if works were not up to the required standard then department officers and engineers had not ensured that contractors carried out quality works as per specification.
Temjen Toy disclosed that of the required amount only Rs.66 Lakhs has been earmarked for road repairs during the current financial year. He reminded the public of their responsibility in inculcating civic sense with regard to the blocked road drainages.
Temjen Toy further said blocked drains cause overflow of stagnant water to the roads and ultimately cause damage to the surface.
PWD (R&B) requires Rs.250 crore annually for repair and maintenance of all the state highways
Department has proposed a ‘Service Lane’ and parking facility of vehicles along the NH 29
The commissioner and secretary said this was evident in and around Purana Bazaar to Chumukedima because landowners refuse to allow authority to channelize waterways for the clogged drainage.
Temjen Toy sought public cooperation and also informed that the department has initiated a project for Dimapur bypass to Patkai Bridge that was nearing completion.
He also disclosed that the department has proposed a ‘Service Lane’ and parking facility for vehicles along the National Highway 29 in view of the chaotic traffic congestion– from Purana Bazar to Chumukedima area.
DC Dimapur, N. Hushili Sema, highlighted the problems faced by the public especially motorists owing to blockage of the drainage from Naharbari till Chumukedima. She said stretches of the NH 29 turned into puddles.
However, Hushili said that it was not only the problem of the state government or department but also responsibility of the public and therefore called for inculcation of civic sense.
Chief engineer (R&B), D. Mero, said that Purana Bazaar to Chumukedima would have a two- lane highway. He said the state cannot give compensation unless it from the North East Council (NEC) or Central government.
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