Srinagar, Jul 05: While half of the season suitable for macadamisation is already over, the million-dollar question remains whether the delay is due to ‘illegal hoarding’ by stockists or the government’s ‘adamant approach’ towards the issue, as contractors continue to stay away from tenders citing unfavourable rates amidst the Middle East crisis.
In May this year, the government cleared a plan estimated at around ₹223 crore, with a proposed allocation of nearly ₹155.83 crore for the macadamisation process. However, as soon as tenders were floated, contractors showed little interest, claiming that rates mentioned were not favourable given the recent hike in prices. The tender deadlock has continued since then, leaving commuters across the Valley struggling with potholed roads.
Sources within the government stated that the matter has been taken up with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who has directed to resolve the issue within a week. In case the matter is not resolved, raids will be conducted on plants and other places to ascertain whether stock is already piled up.
“The amount to be used for macadamisation has already been disbursed in the month of April to the departments concerned, but the illegal hoarding by stockists and other relevant people is leading to inordinate delay,” sources informed, adding that it is time for them to take a call otherwise strict action will be initiated.
Bashir Ahmad Khan, President of J&K Hot Mix Plant Association, told Rising Kashmir that they are with the government’s decision with regard to initiating raids. “We will accompany the government during these raids and will show our every single plant. But the issue doesn’t lie with us. In case we get the material like Tar and other things at reasonable rates, we will be ready to start the work even today,” Khan said.
Khan, who along with other members is presently on strike, demanded the government take an appropriate call so that the season suitable for macadamisation is not over without witnessing change in road conditions.
The potholed condition of roads across Jammu and Kashmir has been pushing commuters to face tough situations daily, with frequent traffic congestions at multiple places, especially in the interiors of Srinagar City. Nadeem Ahmad, a local resident from Chandapora, Habba Kadal, said it has been a year since the road in his locality was dug for drainage and pipeline works, but the delay in macadamisation has been taking a heavy toll on the local populace. “The potholed road is not only damaging our vehicles, but the dust emanating from it is also affecting our health,” he said. Locals demanded immediate action and urged the government to macadamise the roads at the earliest.
