Litem Eshi Ori
PASIGHAT, Jun 3: Residents of Sika Bamin, Sika Tode and Oyan villages have submitted a memorandum to the East Siang Deputy Commissioner, expressing serious concern over the quality of the under-construction Sika-Tode Rami Korong Bridge and road project at Sika-Bamin village.
The bridge is being constructed by M/s MM Enterprise, while the road widening work is being undertaken by M/s Koze Zango Enterprise under the supervision of the PWD Pasighat Division.
According to the villagers, a substantial portion of the bridge structure reportedly collapsed before completion, raising concerns about the quality of construction materials, workmanship, structural safety, and adherence to approved engineering standards. They alleged that the visible condition of the project points to possible lapses in execution and quality control.
Villagers further claimed that the road widening work has not been carried out as per approved specifications and has faced considerable delays, causing inconvenience to commuters and affecting transportation and public safety in the area.
The residents also alleged that the contractors have blocked the existing road without providing an alternative diversion route. As a result, local commuters, schoolchildren, emergency services, and daily transportation have been severely affected. They expressed concern over the lack of barricades, warning signs, and other essential safety measures at the construction site.
The complainants maintained that the contractors’ actions are contrary to the quality assurance and safety provisions prescribed under the CPWD Works Manual. They further alleged that repeated changes of contractors may have contributed to poor execution and the eventual collapse of the bridge structure.
Describing the bridge as a lifeline for the area, the villagers expressed disappointment over the delay and alleged substandard work. They urged the district administration to intervene immediately and take appropriate action against those found responsible.
“Even bridges constructed during the British era in our area remain functional and structurally sound. It is difficult to understand how a bridge under construction in today's technologically advanced age could collapse before completion,” the memorandum stated.
The villagers sought an immediate technical inspection of the project by a competent engineering team, a structural safety audit, an independent quality assessment, and a thorough examination of construction materials, reinforcement, design compliance, and workmanship. They also demanded the provision of a safe diversion route, installation of barricades and warning boards, and expedited completion of the project.
Further, the villagers called for fixing accountability on the concerned contractors and supervising officials if negligence or substandard construction is established. They urged authorities to consider measures such as blacklisting of contractors, recovery of public funds, imposition of penalties, and initiation of criminal proceedings where warranted.
Citing provisions of the CPWD Works Manual 2022 relating to execution standards, quality control, inspections, and accountability, the complainants argued that the collapse of a bridge before completion and the prolonged delay in road construction indicate possible gross negligence and misuse of public resources.
The memorandum warned that if prompt corrective measures are not taken, the matter may be pursued before vigilance authorities and other competent legal forums.
No official response from the contractors or the concerned department was available at the time of filing this report.