Soil erosion threatens road stretch near pond

Satish Seth

Kaithal, January 1

The stretch on the Kaithal-Panipat road via Assandh passing thorough Rajound Town in the district has become risky as a major part of the berms along a pond in Rajound has vanished due to soil erosion.

All this happened a long time ago and continues to pose a great risk to the commuters.

Travelling on this stretch, especially during rains and in foggy conditions, is perilous, but the department concerned seems to be in a slumber and is, perhaps, awaiting a major mishap to take place.

This is a PWD road and despite repeated reminders to the officials concerned, the department has taken no step to fill and strengthen the eroded berms and ensure safety of road users.

Mukesh Rana, an advocate of Rajound, expressed anguish over the attitude of the PWD officials and said that it was strange that the department senior officials, who frequently visit and inspect roads and other construction sites, had failed to understand the urgency and priority of such a risky spot on a state highway.

Subhash Bhambhu, Superintending Engineer (SE), PWD circle, Kaithal, said the matter had come to his notice and the widening work on the road would start soon. In the meantime, he would ask the contractor to take immediate measures to fill and strengthen the berms along the pond on a priority basis so that the commuters do not face any risk on the road. He promised to install reflectors for the safety of the commuters in adverse weather conditions as an immediate measure.