Road to UNESCO-listed Charaideo Maidams remains incomplete after two years, locals allege poor construction

Allegations of inordinate delay and poor-quality construction have surfaced over the BG Road–Simaluguri road project in Assam's Sivasagar district, with local residents and organisations claiming that the nearly 18-km stretch remains incomplete more than two years after work began.
 

The road, which provides connectivity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Charaideo Maidams, has allegedly become difficult to navigate due to unfinished construction, potholes and excavation at several locations.
 

According to the allegations, the project is being executed under the Asom Mala scheme, for which Rs 121 crore was sanctioned. The construction was scheduled to be completed by March 2025, but the work remains unfinished.
 

The project was awarded to contractor Shiva Harlalka, who has been accused by local residents of failing to complete the work within the stipulated timeline.
 

Residents alleged that the construction has been carried out in patches, leaving several portions of the road dug up and in poor condition. They claimed that the substandard execution has caused severe inconvenience to commuters and tourists travelling to the Charaideo Maidams.
 

They also questioned why the contractor was reportedly allowed to continue with the project despite the delay.
 

The contractor has also executed other major road projects in Upper Assam, including the Jhanji–Dimow four-lane road and work on the historic Dhodar Ali, both of which have also drawn criticism over delays, according to the allegations.
 

The Jatiya Sangrami Sena, Assam, has warned of launching fresh democratic protests if the BG Road–Simaluguri road is not completed at the earliest.
 

Residents have also urged the Public Works Department (PWD) to intervene, ensure quality construction and expedite completion of the project.