Mir Aatif
Bandipora, Aug 1 (KINS): Residents in Bandipora have raised concerns over the poor condition of several roads that were blacktopped during the last construction season, alleging that repair work has been delayed.
The damaged roads include the Khayar–Boinar road, Watrina–Lawaypora road and several other stretches across the district. Locals said these roads have developed potholes and damaged patches within a year of being blacktopped.
Residents alleged that despite the roads being recently completed, the damaged portions have not been repaired. They urged the authorities to ensure that contractors carry out the necessary maintenance work without further delay.
They also sought greater monitoring by the District Administration and the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department to ensure recently completed road projects are properly maintained.
Residents urged the authorities to inspect all roads blacktopped last year and complete repair work during the current working season, saying that delaying repairs until October or November could affect the quality of fresh macadamisation due to adverse weather conditions.
Responding to the concerns, Executive Engineer, R&B Division Bandipora, said the Khayar–Boinar road will be repaired after quarry operations in the area are completed.
“A stone quarry has permission to operate there, and we have asked the contractor to wait. Once the quarry operations are completed, the contractor will carry out the required repairs,” the Executive Engineer said.
On other damaged roads, the Executive Engineer said Bandipora is likely to be among the first districts in Kashmir where this year’s macadamisation programme will begin.
Residents, however, reiterated their demand for early repairs, saying timely action is necessary to prevent further deterioration of the roads.(KINS)
