Ajay Sharma
Rajouri, April 9: While the strategic Devak-Hathal road in Tehsil Sunderbani, Rajouri, is facing deterioration, especially during rains, causing serious risk of accidents, the district administration appears to be in Slumber.
According to sources, the road, maintained by the Public Works Department (PWD), has been severely eroded and damaged.
“You can see the vehicles are carefully navigating through narrow stretch where the road has broken away significantly—leaving barely 6 to 7 feet of usable width in places,” sources said and added that the water flow during rains has been deepening the damage day by day, with the risk of complete closure or a major mishap increasing.
Sources said that this issue was brought to the attention of the administration three to four months ago, but it remained unheard.
“While the Deputy Commissioner of Rajouri took some notice, low rung officers in the department have failed to take concrete action on the ground,” said sources, adding “the road has started ripping, which shows the standard of quality work.
Sources said that the administration seems to be waiting for a big incident before they wake up.
“Is Sundarbani administration sleeping, or do they only act after something tragic happens?,” questioned sources, adding that the road becomes highly dangerous on rainy days, with chances of it being washed away or blocked.
They said vehicles are passing with extreme difficulty on the remaining narrow portion.
“Pre-election promises by leaders for road repairs are often forgotten once polls are over,” sources said and demanded immediate intervention.
Sources further asserted that this is a public road used by residents and commuters daily.
“Locals fear that continued neglect could lead to a serious accident, especially as more rains are expected in the region,” said sources.
