Reported by Laxman Sharma
Digboi: The 40-km Digboi-Bordumsa-Mohong road project under the Asom Mala program came under scrutiny on Monday as the Digboi co-district administration carried out a spot verification and quality audit amid allegations of substandard workmanship, obstruction of government work and suspected misappropriation of public property.
The inspection was conducted on the directions of the Tinsukia district commissioner following complaints raising concerns over construction quality and project execution.
At the centre of the controversy is a complaint filed by MLA Suren Phukan before the Chief Minister of Assam and senior district authorities, seeking a detailed probe into alleged irregularities in the execution of the road project.
In response, executing agency Purbanchal Buildtech Pvt Ltd also lodged a complaint alleging obstruction of work at the project site.
According to the enquiry order, the administration is examining three key allegations — use of substandard materials, forcible stoppage of government construction work accompanied by alleged intimidation of project personnel, and theft or criminal breach of trust involving public property.
Officials from the district administration, police, the Public Works Roads Department and RITES Limited, the project consultant, participated in the field inspection. The contractor was directed to produce all relevant documents, while Manash Protim Dohutia, president of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha, was also asked to remain present.
Adding another dimension to the matter, Ashok Sharma told reporters that paver blocks worth around Rs 2 crore, allegedly laid along portions of the project corridor, had gone missing. He demanded a thorough investigation to trace the materials and fix responsibility.
Meanwhile, the incomplete condition of the road has caused hardship for commuters and local residents. Several unfinished culverts and partially completed stretches have turned hazardous, particularly during the monsoon and after dusk.
The Digboi-Bordumsa-Mohong road is a key connectivity corridor in eastern Assam, and any compromise in construction quality or misuse of public assets is expected to have implications for public safety and government expenditure.