NH-127(B) drainage collapse in Assam's Dhubri sparks allegations of substandard construction by contractor

Fresh concerns have emerged over the quality of construction work on National Highway 127(B) after a newly built drainage structure collapsed in Assam’s Dhubri district, prompting allegations of substandard execution against contractor J Infratech Pvt. Ltd.

Local residents have alleged that the construction standards adopted in the ongoing highway project are inadequate and have repeatedly raised concerns regarding the quality of engineering and materials being used. The company is currently engaged in developing the strategic highway stretch from Serampore to the approach road of the Dhubri–Phulbari bridge.

Public criticism intensified after a recently constructed concrete roadside drain and culvert at Ujanpetla in the Tamarhat area reportedly gave way under the load of a heavy dumper truck carrying hot bituminous mix for a bypass road connecting the national highway to Guma Ferry Ghat.

According to local accounts, the structure failed immediately as the vehicle attempted to cross the section, resulting in visible fractures and complete collapse of the drainage segment. Residents claimed the incident exposed broader concerns regarding the durability and structural integrity of the multi-crore highway project.

Community members who examined the damaged section alleged that inadequate iron reinforcement had been used inside the concrete structure. Allegations were also raised regarding the use of inferior-grade cement and improper curing practices aimed at reducing execution costs.

Locals further claimed that the Ujanpetla incident is not an isolated case and alleged that similar roadside drainage failures have occurred at multiple locations along the highway corridor under normal operating conditions.

The collapse has heightened safety concerns in the area, with damaged and exposed drainage sections reportedly creating hazardous conditions for motorists and pedestrians. Residents alleged that several minor road accidents have already occurred due to weakened roadside infrastructure.

Despite repeated complaints from local communities regarding construction quality and safety concerns, residents alleged that corrective measures have not been undertaken.

Community representatives have now demanded an immediate independent structural audit of the project by government engineering authorities and have called for accountability and appropriate action against the contracting agency to prevent further incidents on the corridor.

No official response from J Infratech Pvt. Ltd. was available at the time of reporting.