Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 09 August 2023
Mr. Vishal Jolly, National Executive Member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Former State President of BJP, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has raised concerns over the quality of road construction on National Highway No-4 in the North & Middle Andaman District. In a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Mr. Jolly emphasised the substandard work done by awarded contractors on certain stretches of the highway.
Mr. Jolly’s letter underscored the significant issues with road quality and maintenance on National Highway No-4. He specifically drew attention to three major stretches of poor road conditions, all of which were awarded to M/s. Vasishta Company. Additionally, he pointed out that M/s. Mantena Vasishta, a sister concern of M/s. Vasishta Company, was involved in these contracts. The three problem areas identified by Mr. Jolly are as follows:
1. Approximately 22 km of road between Baratang and Azad Hind Fauj Setu, spanning from 107 km chainage to 129 km.
2. Around 12 km of road beyond Rest Camp, covering 220 km chainage to 232 km.
3. Roughly 10 km of road between Kaushalya Nagar and Gate No 15, extending from 155 km chainage to 165 km.
Mr. Jolly further emphasised that these stretches of road pass through forested areas, and the Forest Department has granted permission for construction on the existing road. However, the contractor, M/s. Vasishta Company, has been failing to execute the work diligently and has been providing inadequate excuses.
In light of these issues, Mr. Jolly requested the cancellation of the existing contract awarded to M/s Mantena Constructions Pvt. Ltd. – Vasishta Constructions Ltd. Bridge (JV). He suggested that the work should be re-awarded to a different contractor through a tender process to ensure the timely and proper completion of the remaining road work.
Furthermore, Mr. Jolly urged the Hon’ble Union Minister to prioritise the completion of the balance work on the Middle Strait – Baratang Bridge. He emphasised that this step is crucial for the well-being and convenience of the people residing in the North & Middle Andaman region.
The concerns raised by Mr. Vishal Jolly shed light on the urgent need for better road infrastructure in the North & Middle Andaman District.