New Delhi [India], July 24 (ANI): Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi on Wednesday called on Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari during the ongoing Monsoon Session in Parliament and highlighted the deteriorating condition of National Highway 37 in Assam.
Taking to X, Gogoi said, “I highlighted the deteriorating condition of NH 37 in Assam to him. I also informed him that the tender process for the Jorhat to Jhanji portion onward to Dibrugarh has been initiated and cancelled three times till date. I am sceptical whether the ongoing fourth round of the process will yield a positive outcome.”
In a letter dated July 24, Gogoi wrote the current condition of NH 37, a lifeline for the people of Assam, has reached a critical point, causing significant inconvenience to residents and commuters alike. “The rise in traffic volume, attributed to commercial activities, tourism, and regular transportation, has far outpaced the capacity of the road infrastructure, resulting in extensive wear and tear” he said.
The Congress MP wrote, “I am writing to bring to your urgent attention the pressing matter regarding the deteriorating condition of National Highway 37 (NH-37) in Assam. Despite having raised this issue previously through a letter in July 2023, highlighting it during the last winter session of the 17th Lok Sabha under “Matter Under Rule 377,” and another letter on 12th January 2024, there have been no significant improvements.”
The letter stated below are the factual positions of different sections of NH 37 that require necessary attention.
Nagaon to Jakhalabandha Section: Most parts of this road have undergone repairs multiple times due to defective construction. Cracks and uneven surfaces were visible within a year of construction. Despite bringing this to the notice of the Chief Minister and a subsequent meeting called by the Speaker with NHAI officials and respected MLAs, no significant results have been achieved.
The letter said that similar issues are present between the Numaligarh to Jorhat sections, where the riding quality is not up to standard due to a lack of proper supervision during construction.
It further said that the stretch between Jorhat to Jhanji Portion Onward to Dibrugarh remains incomplete, causing numerous fatal injuries and loss of life due to road accidents.
The letter stated that additionally, it is pertinent to mention that Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Teok (Jorhat) a few months back and may have also witnessed the poor road conditions in Teok. Despite that high-profile visit, the condition of NH 37 remains unchanged, underscoring the urgent need for immediate remedial action.
“I must say that the above portions were awarded to various contractors who lacked financial soundness and capability, resulting in prolonged delays spanning over a decade. Considering that Assam and the NE region experience heavy rainfall, it is suggested that concrete roads be constructed instead of bituminous roads to ensure durability and longevity. Therefore, I humbly request your prompt intervention to address these critical issues. Please oversee the urgent repair of the highway and ensure the timely completion of the four-lane highway for the greater public interest,” Gogoi stated in the letter. (ANI)
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