THE Nagpur-Amravati National Highway is turning into a commuter’s nightmare due to the increasing number of potholes and the deteriorating road condition. FromWadi to Kondhali, a stretch of several kilometres, the tar road is broken at various places, which makes it extremely difficult for vehicles to move smoothly. The issue is not limited to a small patch; nearly the entire route is dotted with potholes and forces drivers to take risky detours or slow down dangerously to avoid damage to their vehicles.

 

Despite the regular collection of tolls, commuters complain that the condition of the road is not up to the mark and blamed the contractor’s negligence for the poor maintenance. A regular commuter from Kondhali expressed frustration, stated that the condition of the road had been bad for several months now. The Public Works Department’s NHAI Division was not paying attention, while toll charges were being cut daily.

 

We are not getting the value for what we are paying, he said. He added that the stretch near Bazargaon is particularly worse, with potholes making it even more dangerous, especially during the night and in the upcoming monsoon season. Bhausaheb Salunke, an official from PWD’s NHAI Division, Amravati, acknowledged the issue and said that the work would be assigned to Atlantaa Limited. “I will direct the officials to inspect the road and immediately carry out repairs,” he assured. 

 

Construction of bridge adds to woes MEANWHILE, the ongoing construction of a bridge at Gondkhairi has added to the troubles of commuters. The temporary service road on both sides of the bridge is in a deplorable state. The tar surface is completely worn out and large potholes make the travel extremely risky at Kalmeshwar Tpoint near Gondkhairi, where bridge work is underway. The road there has become unsafe and there is no proper diversion or maintenance. Local residents pointed out that the contractor has failed to maintain the service road during the construction period, which is a basic responsibility. He also allege that Government agencies had turned a blind eye to the situation. As the monsoon sets in, these potholes and broken stretches could pose a serious safety risk.