Parjang: The expansion of National Highway-53 has become a health hazard for the residents as the ash used in the construction work is causing them respiratory problems. The consultancy agency has been carrying out the construction work without any concern for the residents, a report said.
The residents and local traders have drawn the attention of the administration but their pleas are yet to be addressed. Left with no option, they have threatened to resort to agitation.
The residents have warned that they will not allow the ash-laden trucks to ply on the route if the vehicles are not properly covered or the consultancy agency does not sprinkle water in the area during construction work.
Kunal Structure Pvt Ltd has been awarded the contract for the expansion of the national highway. The agency is transporting ash for the project in trucks without properly covering the vehicles with tarpaulin.
As a result, the ash flies at the slightest blow of wind and poses serious problems for commuters on the highway. Pedestrians and motorcyclists are the worst sufferers.
Moreover, the flying ash makes it difficult for the residents and traders in the nearby market to breathe. The residents alleged that the consultancy agency is not taking enough care to sprinkle water on the road inside the market despite repeated complaints.
The locals also accused the truck drivers of unloading ash at their will instead of the designated place to save fuel by bribing some unscrupulous officials engaged in the construction work.
The unloading of ash on Dihadol- Mahabi roadside and on the Rengali left canal embankment in Kantor village are two cases in point.
The canal water has turned toxic as the ash gets mixed with rainwater and flows into the canal when a thunderstorm or rain lashes the area. Residents in the area fear that such a huge quantity of ash flowing into the canal during rain might silt the canal and render it useless.
A truck driver, requesting anonymity, admitted that they unload ash at various places instead of the designated place as it helps them save fuel. They have to bribe the supervisor of the agency to get the work done, he said.
The truck drivers do not cover the ash-laden vehicles with tarpaulins as the process takes time. By skipping it the drivers can save time and earn more by making extra trips.
When contacted, executive engineer Trilochan Mallick said he has no information about the ash being unloaded on the canal embankment. He will take steps after visiting the site, Mallick added.
PNN