Assam: Dhubri villagers allege corruption in Rs 29.40 lakh road project, demand probe

Residents of Tamarhat in Assam’s Dhubri district have accused contractors and departmental engineers of colluding to execute substandard work under a newly sanctioned rural road project, triggering protests in North Kachakhana and nearby villages.

 

The project, approved under the SOPD(G) scheme for 2025–26, earmarked Rs 29.40 lakh for the “Improvement of GWC Road from Nathu Mondal House to Godarghat at Village Uttar Kachakhana”. The road is considered a critical link for residents who say they have endured severe transport difficulties for years.

 

Villagers describe existing road conditions as “Yama-like”, claiming that poor connectivity has affected access to markets, schools and healthcare facilities. After repeated petitions to authorities, the sanctioning of funds had raised expectations of long-overdue relief.

 

However, the initial phase of construction has drawn sharp criticism. Locals allege that soil and stones are being dumped without proper levelling or compaction, in violation of technical specifications. They claim the work does not reflect the sanctioned plan and have accused officials and contractors of working in tandem to “swallow” public money.

 

Concerns have also been raised about the thickness of the road layers. Residents fear the structure will not withstand the upcoming monsoon if construction continues in its present form.

 

“We have suffered for decades without a proper road. Now that the money has been sanctioned, we will not allow it to be swallowed by corrupt officials. We demand that the work be carried out strictly as outlined in the original project plan,” a local resident said during a protest at the site.

 

The North Kachakhana community has called for an immediate investigation and a transparency audit of the project. Villagers have warned that construction will be halted unless higher authorities intervene and ensure adherence to approved standards.

 

Officials from the concerned department have not yet issued a public response to the allegations.