Teliamura , Aug 23, 2024, TRIPURATIMES Desk

Teliamura, Aug 18: An allegation of corruption has surfaced as the National Highway-08 developed a major crack at the 47 miles area under Teliamura sub-division, leading to suspension of vehicular movement.

The highway was part of a Rs. 200 crore project aimed at widening and improving the infrastructure of the road. Nithin Shai Construction from outside Tripura was assigned to implement the project.

However, shortly after the work commenced, complaints were raised about the quality of the construction. These concerns were highlighted multiple times in the state’s media, emphasizing the potential risks to public safety and the misuse of funds.

In a bid to cover up the situation, two officials of the NH Division (PWD) certified the substandard work allegedly to earn a huge amount of funds. Despite several issues, the road was declared fit for use.

As expected, the road started developing severe signs of damage within a year of completion. The situation has now escalated to the point where the movement of vehicles has been suspended temporarily. The major crack appeared after a recent spell of rain. The disruption in traffic movement is likely to have a major impact on the socio-economic condition in the region.

The disruption of such a crucial communication route due to poorly executed construction is deeply concerning.

An official on Friday informed the media that efforts to repair the NH were already underway.