In a recent letter addressed to Union Road & Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Assam Member of Parliament Gaurav Gogoi highlighted the alarming state of the National Highways in the state. The letter not only brought attention to the deteriorating condition of crucial roadways but also accused the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) of displaying a lackadaisical attitude towards essential development projects.
Gogoi specifically pointed out the critical condition of National Highway No 37, a lifeline for the people of Assam. The rise in traffic volume, attributed to commercial activities, tourism, and regular transportation, has outpaced the road infrastructure’s capacity, resulting in extensive wear and tear. The Teok-Sivasagar section of the Numaligarh-Dibrugarh 4-lane highway, in particular, is underdeveloped, with frequent changes in contractors, leading to a road riddled with potholes and cracks.
The Assam MP also alleged irregularities in the compensation and land acquisition process for the Parokhuwa to Lahorijan stretch of the 113-kilometre-long four-lane NH-29. Fake beneficiaries, included in the notification, reportedly received payment through illegal means, using fabricated land records, causing harm to genuine landowners deprived of rightful compensation.
Expressing concern over NHIDCL’s lacklustre approach, Gogoi urged an urgent intervention to initiate a thorough probe into the organization’s functioning in Assam. The alleged negligence, insufficient collaboration with the public and local administration, and hindrance to crucial infrastructure projects raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of the people of Assam.
Additionally, Gaurav Gogoi highlighted a recent tragic bus vs. truck accident in the Dergaon area, resulting in the loss of around 15 lives and several injuries. He called for a thorough investigation into the incident and demanded appropriate compensation for the families of the victims, emphasizing the need for swift action to help them rebuild their lives.
Gaurav Gogoi’s letter underscores the urgency of addressing the deteriorating condition of National Highways in Assam and investigating alleged irregularities. The plea for swift action and intervention from the Union Road & Transport Minister highlights the importance of prioritizing infrastructure development and ensuring the safety of the citizens in the region.
