Substandard road work in Sirmaur triggers outrage

Allegations of mismanagement and misuse of public funds have surfaced in Sirmaur district, as residents point to crumbling rural roads as evidence of inefficiency in government-funded projects. The Kolar-Haripurkhol road, a vital link connecting Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmaur district with Haryana through villages like Mehtawala, Devwala, Bankabara, Charanwala and Jamnighat, has become the latest flashpoint.

A 3-km stretch of the road, recently metalled under a Rs 34 lakh tender awarded by the Public Works Department (PWD), Paonta Sahib division, has already deteriorated just two weeks after completion. The road surface is riddled with potholes and loose gravel, raising serious safety concerns for commuters, particularly two-wheeler riders.

Residents have expressed anger over what they describe as substandard work. “We were hopeful when the tender was finally awarded after years of neglect, but the poor quality of work has left us disillusioned. This road, meant to improve our daily commute, has now become a hazard,” said a local villager.

Villagers allege the use of inferior materials in the construction process and claim their complaints to the contractor have gone unanswered. They are now demanding strict action against those responsible for the shoddy work, accusing them of wasting public funds and endangering lives.

Acknowledging the complaints, Dilip Tomar, Executive Engineer, PWD Division, Paonta Sahib, stated that a notice has been issued to the contractor. “The Rs 34 lakh metalling project is under scrutiny due to reports of poor material usage. Payments to the contractor have been withheld and the final settlement will depend on satisfactory repairs,” Tomar said.

This incident is emblematic of a larger issue in Sirmaur district, where many rural roads remain in poor condition despite substantial government investments. Heavy rains in recent years have further exacerbated the situation, underscoring the need for durable infrastructure and stringent project oversight.

Residents have called for greater accountability and transparency in public works, urging the government to take strict measures against contractors who compromise on quality. Poor infrastructure not only wastes taxpayer money but also puts public safety at risk.

The Kolar-Haripurkhol road controversy serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved governance and monitoring of infrastructure projects to ensure long-term benefits for rural communities.