Aatif Qayoom
Srinagar, Sept 30 (KNS): As authorities have started the process of macadamization of roads across valley, civil society and other concerned groups on Wednesday expressed concerns over the process ahead of approaching winters.
Talking to KNS, several senior citizens expressed glad over macadamization of roads across valley however put forth their dismay over the process starting ahead of winters. They questioned why the roads left unattended during peak summer season and now taken into account when winters are approaching. They added that no accountability and questioning have left state exchequer empty by vested interested elements.
“Isn’t it a wastage of money and loot to state exchequer by macadamizing roads during Autumn as the atmosphere is not favourable for the process”, civil society questioned.
They said this year in wake of Covid-19 pandemic, roads witnessed less traffic and a favourable temperature but despite of this great opportunity, officials concerned choose to macadamize roads in autumn which speaks volumes about departmental planning and the material used in.
It is worth to mention that most of the areas where macadamization process was done are without drainage facilities resulting the rainy water accumulating on roads.
The government is spending millions of rupees on account of development of roads but most of the roads including vital areas are without proper road connectivity and required drainage facility.
Chief Engineer PMGSY Kashmir Mohammad Rafi told KNS that the department this year has macadamized 650 plus kilometres in Kashmir valley and further work are underway.
When apprised about the concerns of people regarding low temperatures, he said the process can be continued till October 15.
“There is no problem in macadamization till October 15. Atmosphere till date is favourable for the process”, official said.
Chief Engineer (R&B) Showkat Jeelani while talking to KNS said the completion of process in valley will take time as there are only 32 plants who provide macadamization material. He said several agencies including PMGSY, Beacon, R&B and National Highway are getting materials from the same plants so it will take time for an agency to wait for his turn. (KNS)