By TC News Desk
Agartala, 11th February 2025: Allegations of severe irregularities in road construction have sparked outrage among residents of Mitra Joy Para, who have warned of launching a massive protest if their grievances are not addressed. The JKM organization, responsible for constructing the national highway from Kanchanpur to Manu, has come under heavy criticism for delays and poor-quality work.
“The work has been going on for two years, but in reality, nothing substantial has been done,” said a frustrated local resident. “What little has been completed is of such poor quality that we fear it won’t last.”
Residents claim that the retaining walls along the highway are being built on loose, filled soil, making them highly vulnerable to collapse during the rainy season. They also allege that construction activities are intentionally delayed until the monsoon, creating severe hardships for people, particularly in emergencies.
“Every year, they start work during the rainy season, making it impossible for us to leave our homes,” said another resident. “Pregnant women and sick patients suffer the most, as even reaching the hospital becomes a nightmare.”
Further aggravating the situation, locals accuse JKM of employing inexperienced architects for the project and engaging in corruption. Reports suggest that bitumen and other construction materials are being stolen and sold. In a recent incident, police arrested two individuals, Prabir Nath and Sanjay Nam, while they were smuggling bitumen.
Additionally, residents of the hilly Mitraj area have been facing a severe drinking water crisis due to the construction. “The only drinking water source for our area has been destroyed, and despite promises, JKM has not arranged any alternatives,” a resident lamented.
The growing anger has led locals to issue a stern warning: “If road construction does not resume immediately and drinking water is not provided, we will launch a large-scale movement.”
