Gogoi says can’t drive at 130km/h due to bad roads, Gadkari reacts
In a recent statement, Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi highlighted the deplorable condition of roads in Assam, particularly on the National Highway 37 (NH-37) that connects Jorhat to Dibrugarh. Gogoi’s comments came as a response to the poor road infrastructure in the state, which has been a longstanding issue for commuters. According to him, the bad roads make it impossible for people to drive at speeds of 100-130km/h, which is a reasonable expectation for highways.
Gogoi’s statement was not just a passing remark, but a reflection of the frustration and concern that many people in Assam share regarding the condition of roads in the state. The Congress leader pointed out that despite paying tolls, people are not getting the quality roads they deserve. This is a valid concern, as tolls are collected from commuters with the promise of providing well-maintained roads. However, in the case of Assam, it seems that the tolls are not being utilized effectively to improve the road infrastructure.
Gogoi specifically mentioned the stretch of NH-37 from Jorhat to Dibrugarh, which is in a bad state. This highway is a critical connectivity route for the region, and its poor condition can have significant implications for trade, commerce, and tourism. The bad roads not only cause inconvenience to commuters but also lead to increased travel times, fuel consumption, and vehicle maintenance costs.
In response to Gogoi’s statement, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari acknowledged that the road was indeed damaged due to rains and assured that it would be restored to good condition within six months. While Gadkari’s response is a positive step, it raises questions about the long-term planning and maintenance of roads in Assam. If the roads are prone to damage from rains, it is essential to have a robust maintenance plan in place to ensure that they are restored quickly and efficiently.
The issue of bad roads in Assam is not new, and it has been a topic of discussion for many years. Despite the state’s strategic location and economic importance, the road infrastructure has not kept pace with the growing demands of trade and commerce. The poor condition of roads not only affects the local economy but also has a ripple effect on the overall development of the region.
The central government has launched several initiatives to improve the road infrastructure in India, including the Bharatmala Pariyojana, which aims to develop a network of highways and expressways across the country. However, the implementation of these projects has been slow, and many states, including Assam, are still struggling with poor road conditions.
In the context of Assam, it is essential to have a comprehensive plan to improve the road infrastructure, including the maintenance of existing roads and the construction of new ones. The state government and the central government must work together to allocate sufficient funds and resources to address the issue of bad roads.
Furthermore, it is crucial to involve local communities and stakeholders in the planning and implementation process to ensure that the road development projects meet the needs of the people. This includes conducting regular surveys and feedback sessions to understand the concerns and expectations of commuters and residents.
In conclusion, Gogoi’s statement highlights the urgent need to address the issue of bad roads in Assam. The state’s poor road infrastructure is not only a convenience issue but also has significant economic and social implications. The response from Union Minister Nitin Gadkari is a positive step, but it is essential to have a long-term plan in place to ensure that the roads in Assam are well-maintained and provide a safe and convenient commute for all.
As the government works to improve the road infrastructure in Assam, it is essential to keep the concerns and expectations of commuters and residents at the forefront. By doing so, we can create a robust and efficient transportation network that supports the economic growth and development of the region.
News source: https://x.com/OfficeOfNG/status/1996489566979817577
About the Author
