Madikeri villagers halt road work over poor quality; PWD orders redo

Madikeri: The Inakanahalli and Alekatte villagers in Somwarpet taluk have stopped the road work, complaining of substandard quality.

Over 2km road stretch from Inkanahalli to Alekatte was in pitiable condition, and Rs 2 crore was sanctioned to rebuild the cement road. As per the tender, the old cement road had to be peeled off completely and fresh concrete had to be laid. However, the villagers alleged that the concrete work was carried out in a hurry overnight.

“Concrete was used to lay the road at night with only vehicle lights. Concrete is being placed from 7pm to midnight,” said B Anil, a resident. He detailed that as per the tender, the concrete had to be laid through precast pavers, and he alleged that the concerned workers are laying concrete by hand without using any machinery. He further stated that the contractor is carrying poor-quality work as concrete is being laid directly on soil in several places.

A large group of villagers gathered at the site and demanded the presence of officials. Meanwhile, PWD engineer Kumar visited the spot and inspected the road work. He was taken to task by villagers, who demanded that he be present throughout the road work.

Following an inspection, contractor was ordered to peel off the unscientifically laid concrete, and the concrete was removed overnight. He has been asked to restart the road work.