Assistant Commissioner uncovers Rs1.58 billion road project irregularities

The construction of the Kallar Syedan-Dhan Gali Road project has come under scrutiny after the Assistant Commissioner of Kallar Syedan revealed irregularities amounting to Rs1.58 billion. The project, sanctioned by the Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) for the fiscal year 2022-23, aimed to construct, repair, and expand a 20.5km road connecting Kallar Syedan to Dhan Gali. This initiative, which began in December 2022, seeks to improve connectivity between Rawalpindi and Azad Kashmir's Dadyal and Mirpur regions, catering to the needs of tourists and overseas Pakistanis traveling to Azad Kashmir.

During an inspection, Assistant Commissioner Ishtiaq Niazi noted substandard workmanship on the road, particularly at the Choa Khalsa and Kallar Syedan Road junction. Concerns were raised regarding the use of inferior concrete and excess sand in the construction of a bridge, posing potential safety risks for daily commuters. Other deviations from construction standards, such as the inadequate base of the new road, absence of debris removal from the previous road, and the lack of a proper drainage system leading to water accumulation and dengue larvae breeding, were also highlighted.

Emphasizing the importance of accountability and competence in public welfare projects, the Assistant Commissioner demanded a prompt response from the Highways Sub-Division II, Rawalpindi, to address the raised objections. Despite efforts to obtain feedback from both the Assistant Commissioner and the SDO Highway Sub-Division II Rawalpindi, no responses were received.

The discovery of irregularities in the Kallar Syedan-Dhan Gali Road project underscores the critical need for transparency and adherence to construction standards in public infrastructure development. It serves as a reminder of the importance of diligent oversight and accountability to ensure the safety and quality of projects that impact the community. Moving forward, it is imperative for authorities to address these issues promptly and uphold the integrity of public welfare initiatives.