Outrage after video exposing poor road work on Balh road in Mandi goes viral

A video that went viral on social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp has sparked outrage among residents of the remote Chauhar valley in Mandi district after it allegedly exposed substandard tarring work on the Balh–Tikkar road. In the video, a local youth Sukhram can be seen showing poor quality of the newly laid road, claiming that the contractor carried out the work negligently under the supervision of the Public Works Department (PWD).

The incident prompted immediate action from the PWD, whose officials rushed to the site to assess the situation. Locals expressed anger over what they termed as a “shameful compromise” on quality, accusing both the department and the contractor of corruption and negligence.

An appealed was made to the public to gather on the road in protest. “People must come forward so that such poor quality work is not repeated in the future. These contractors fill their own pockets while risking the lives of commuters on such gravelly roads,” said a local resident.

Chauhar valley residents were urged to stage a protest and demand accountability. The locals demanded a thorough probe and strict action against those responsible for the lapse in quality control.

Taking cognizance of the viral video, PWD officials arrived at the spot and collected samples from the road for laboratory testing. Executive Engineer (XEN) PWD, Vinayak Kashyap, said that the samples had been sent to the quality control lab and the report is expected within two days. “The department encourages citizens to bring such issues to our notice. No compromise will be allowed on the quality of construction work,” he assured.

Lekh Ram, Block Development Committee member, stated that the sampling was done in the presence of local residents. “It was evident that at two spots, the construction quality was compromised. However, officials assured that corrective measures will be taken,” he said.

PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh said that strict directions had been issued to ensure quality checks. “Roads are lifeline of development. No contractor will be allowed to compromise on quality and officials must maintain strict vigilance. Laxity will not be tolerated,” the minister affirmed.