GUWAHATI: In response to mounting concerns regarding unsafe potholes on roads throughout the state, the Assam government held a video conference meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary on October 4.
The meeting, which took place at noon in the Conference Hall of the Chief Secretary's office in Assam, addressed the issue of deteriorating road conditions and the associated risks to public safety.
During the meeting, the Chief Secretary expressed deep concern over the recent rise in fatalities caused by unsafe potholes, particularly in Guwahati and other districts across Assam. The meeting highlighted the need for better coordination and information sharing among all relevant stakeholders, including Jal Board, Smart City Ltd, Purva Bharati Gas, Power Grid Corporation, PWD, NHAL, NHIDCL, and GMC.
All departments and implementing agencies were instructed to summon contractors, including main and sub-contractors involved in various projects, by October 5.
They have been asked to sensitise these contractors about the necessary safety measures to be undertaken during project execution. Each stakeholder agency was tasked with designating a nodal officer responsible for road restoration and safety measures. These officers and concerned contractors, including the main contractor, are to be held accountable for ensuring safety measures and liable for any lapses across all districts.
All departments and implementing agencies were directed to provide a list of potholes and vulnerable locations related to ongoing projects to the District Commissioners within two days.
The meeting explored the possibility of obtaining an undertaking from implementing departments, agencies, and contractors in place of a NoC. This aims to hold contractors and implementing agencies accountable for any lapses leading to incidents.
GMC will closely monitor the restoration work and vulnerable points within municipal areas of Guwahati. They will communicate issues to concerned departments and implementing agencies for prompt action.
A dedicated portal will be established by District Commissioner, Kamrup (M) for public complaints related to unsafe potholes and vulnerable locations. The portal, funded by GMDA, is set to be operational by October 10, with provisions for other districts to follow suit. GMC will provide a list of uncovered potholes and manholes in footpaths to PWRD for immediate action.
District Commissioners were also instructed to ensure public safety during the upcoming Puja festivals and take corrective measures to prevent incidents. DCs were asked to compile a list of vulnerable points and take necessary corrective measures, including providing barricades, signage, and illumination to prevent accidents. PWRD was directed to take immediate steps to restore roads in districts where existing maintenance contracts (Defect Liability Period) have already expired, following requests from District Commissioners.