Deputy CM suspends JE for poor road construction

Acting against the substandard road work on the Chijhama-Tragpora stretch in Rafiabad, Baramulla, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary suspended the Junior Engineer, besides issuing showcause notice to the defaulter contractor.

The action has been taken following a viral video and public concern on the issue which necessitated suspension of Junior Engineer Riyaz Ahmad Bhat with immediate effect.

The executing contractor, M/S Rafiq Construction, has been served a formal notice to explain their position within three days, failing which action will be initiated under the Notice Inviting Tender (NIT) conditions and relevant laws. Samples of the laid macadam and bituminous material have been collected and sent to the DIQC laboratory for analysis.

An official spokesperson said “The Deputy Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment towards ensuring transparency, accountability and quality in public infrastructure, emphasising zero tolerance for negligence. He encouraged the citizens to continue voicing their concerns, underscoring the importance of public participation in ensuring effective governance”.