Dimapur, July 15 (MExN): “The department was in knowledge of the bridges expired condition but did not take up any effective safeguard measure which is highly questionable and deplorable,” Concerned Citizens of Nagaland (CCN) today alleged while vehemently condemning the PWD Roads & Bridges and the Minister in charge for the apathy shown towards the public. It said that “The public dreaded using the bridge, but left with no choice, had to ply through the fragile bridge, as it was the only life-line connection for many.”
The CCN in a press release questioned the sanction order No.NH-12031/58/2014/NG/NH-8 issued on 28th July, 2015, wherein an amount of Rs. 37.66 crores was sanctioned by the Government of India, for construction of RCC Girder Bridge within 24 months.
It mentioned that during the closure of the bridge for two months in 2015, the public were anticipating that the work would begin; however, it was found that only minor repairing were done and iron pipes were placed horizontally above at both ends preventing heavy vehicles. It is also learned via Letter no CE/NH/CRF/ 2015-16/19 on 14/06/16 that sanction was made to MS Naagamitech regd .No NPWD class 1/448/2002 by the PWD, an amount of Rs 34,87,01,786 for the construction of the approved bridge.
On this issue, the CCN demands to know the validity of the work order and as to why the work was delayed and also seek an answer from the R&B minister, PWD department, MS Naagamitech and the MLA of the constituency the silence on the delay of such important and urgent work. “Their negligence resulted in lost of 4 innocent lives and they should be held accountable,” it stated.
“The PWD department washing off its hand in 2015 over the deteriorating bridge and accusing the state government of not responding to the so-called Rebuilding project of Rs. 49.00 lakhs which was prepared for “strengthening” the bridge as published in reports is highly questionable,” the CCN added while questioning why such “urgent needs of the hour” were not heeded to by the State Government in time. CCN also demands that a reliable alternative arrangement be made immediately.
CCN fervently calls upon the citizens to wake up and realize their rights and duties. Since the silence of the people and reluctance to be vigilant and demand for what duly is our “Citizen’s Right” was one of the contributing factor leading to the pain and shock brought by the collapse of the bridge.
CCN reiterate its commitment to carry on the demand for Good Roads and Bridges – “a Citizen’s Right”; and urges upon the public to take upon ourselves the task to demand for and of supervising any work that concerns the welfare of the people with integrity and vigilance.
CCN also expressed concern on the quality of work and the condition of the Dhansiri Bridge and Flyovers in Dimapur and urges the R & B (PWD) Department to carry out timely inspection on these structures, as “prevention is better than cure”.
Meanwhile, CCN has extended condolences to the bereaved families and pray for speedy recovery of those injured at the tragic collapse of the bridge over river Chathe, Diphupar A.
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