Pre-monsoon rains wash away portions of NH-127(B) in Assam’s Dhubri, locals allege substandard construction

Severe pre-monsoon rainfall has caused extensive damage to portions of the newly constructed National Highway 127(B) in the Tamarhat area of Assam’s Dhubri district, triggering widespread public concern over infrastructure quality and commuter safety.

The affected stretch of the highway connecting Tamarhat to Grahampur witnessed significant erosion on both sides following heavy rainfall over the past few days. Drainage channels built alongside the highway to divert rainwater were reportedly washed away due to strong runoff, leading to further deterioration of the road structure.

Large potholes and eroded boulders have emerged along several sections of the highway, creating hazardous conditions for commuters and raising fears of accidents. Local residents expressed concern that the newly developed corridor has become unsafe even before the onset of the full monsoon season.

The incident has also sparked strong public criticism against J Infratech Pvt. Ltd., the construction agency responsible for the Srirampur to Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge section of NH-127(B). Residents alleged that substandard materials and poor engineering practices were used during construction, resulting in the rapid deterioration of the multi-crore infrastructure project.

Locals further claimed that despite substantial public funds being allocated for the national highway project, compromised construction standards allegedly undermined the durability of the road. Allegations were also raised regarding inadequate supervision and failure by monitoring authorities to ensure proper quality control during execution.

Some residents additionally accused the contractor of attempting to suppress complaints and avoid accountability through alleged administrative influence and intimidation.

Following the damage, local community members and leaders have demanded an immediate high-level independent inquiry into the construction process of NH-127(B). They urged the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and the district administration to take prompt corrective measures, conduct emergency repairs on the affected sections, and ensure the highway is structurally secure before the monsoon intensifies further.