Bitumen shortage slows road re-carpeting works in Chandigarh 

Taking serious note of the pace of road re-carpeting works being undertaken across Chandigarh, Mayor Saurabh Joshi on Tuesday convened an emergency review meeting with the engineering wing of the Municipal Corporation and representatives of the agencies executing the works.

Chief Engineer Sanjay Arora, Superintending Engineer (B&R) Dharmender Sharma and other officers concerned were present during the meeting.

During the review, contractors apprised the Mayor that the progress of road re-carpeting works has been adversely affected due to the non-availability of bitumen in the market.

The shortage has disrupted the supply chain and slowed down the execution of several ongoing projects across the city.

Taking serious note of the situation, Joshi directed the contractors and officials to explore all possible alternatives for procuring bitumen and ensuring uninterrupted execution of works.

He emphasised that supply-related constraints should not become a reason for prolonged inconvenience to the public.

The Mayor instructed the engineering wing to closely monitor the availability of bitumen and maintain constant coordination with contractors to remove bottlenecks and expedite the pending works.

He further directed that regular progress reports be submitted to ensure effective monitoring and timely completion of projects.

"The residents of Chandigarh should not suffer due to supply-related challenges. All concerned agencies must work in close coordination and make every possible effort to accelerate the pace of road re-carpeting works. Public convenience and quality infrastructure remain our top priorities," said the Mayor.

He also directed the contractors to mobilise additional resources, wherever required, to compensate for the delays caused by the shortage of bitumen and ensure that the works are completed within the stipulated timelines.

Reaffirming his commitment towards strengthening Chandigarh's road infrastructure, Joshi said the Municipal Corporation is actively monitoring the situation and taking all necessary steps to ensure the timely completion of development works and provide better civic amenities to the residents of the city.