Assam: Govt guidelines flouted in Maibang tunnel repair on east–west corridor

Repair work has begun inside the Maibang highway tunnel along the Saurashtra East–West Corridor in Assam’s Dima Hasao district, but the work is reportedly being carried out in violation of government safety guidelines.

According to local reports from Haflong, the tunnel on the Silchar–Saurashtra East–West Corridor had developed large potholes inside, posing a serious risk to commuters. Despite repeated concerns, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) had earlier failed to take timely action to repair the damaged stretch. The tunnel has also long been plagued by inadequate lighting, an issue that has remained unresolved for a considerable period.

Observers alleged that while these safety issues persisted, the NHAI appeared more focused on reopening the Jatinga–Harangajao route rather than addressing the deteriorating condition of the tunnel.

However, repair work has now finally begun. Reports claim that the restoration is being carried out without adhering to prescribed government guidelines, raising concerns about the safety of workers and road users. Labourers engaged at the site reportedly lack minimum protective safety measures, and no visible road safety arrangements have been put in place.

Sources said that an outside contractor, DC Azmira, had been awarded the responsibility from July 1, 2024, to undertake maintenance of the 57-kilometre stretch from near Hatikhali Government Model Degree College to Nerim Bungalow, including tunnel upkeep. For months, the contractor allegedly showed little urgency in carrying out the repair work, allowing the problems to worsen.

Even after work has begun, compliance with government norms appears lacking. A site engineer from the DC Azmira contracting group reportedly admitted that the repair work is not being executed in accordance with official standards. The situation has raised fresh questions about road safety and oversight in the maintenance of the key highway corridor.