Assam: Newly constructed Batadrava-Baruwati road damaged after light rain, locals allege poor-quality work

Allegations of large-scale irregularities and substandard construction have surfaced over the ongoing reconstruction of the Batadrava-Baruwati connecting road in Assam’s Nagaon district, with portions of the newly built road reportedly getting damaged after only light rainfall.

The road, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Dhing Public Works Department (PWD), is considered an important and busy route connecting areas of Morigaon district with the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva at Batadrava Than. It also serves as a key link between Batadrava Than and Patekibari Than.

For years, the road has remained in a poor condition and has frequently been affected by waterlogging and artificial flooding, causing immense hardship to devotees, Vaishnavites and local residents.

Following repeated appeals by residents to the district administration and reports in the media, the department sanctioned the reconstruction of the road. However, locals have alleged that the contractor entrusted with the work is carrying out construction using poor-quality materials and improper methods.

Residents claimed that parts of the road began deteriorating even before the peak monsoon season, raising concerns over the durability and quality of the project.

They further alleged that along a section near a pond, the road’s side embankment was being constructed using only a few bamboo poles and temporary support instead of proper stone protection and engineering measures.

Local residents fear that the road may soon return to its earlier dilapidated condition, forcing commuters, devotees and nearby residents to once again face severe difficulties.

The residents claimed that they had raised concerns with the contractor, but alleged that no corrective action had been taken. They also accused the PWD of failing to act despite repeated complaints.

Seeking immediate intervention, residents have urged the Nagaon District Commissioner and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to order an inquiry into the alleged irregularities, ensure quality construction and take action against those responsible for any lapses.