Staff Reporter
NIRJULI, OCT 13:
The Public Rights Action Committee (PRAC) on Tuesday staged a peaceful rally from Papu Nallah to Nirjuli, demanding a lasting solution to the prolonged delay in construction of the Papu Nallah–Nirjuli stretch of NH-415 and the deteriorating condition of the Bage Tinali–Doimukh road.
Reiterating its charter of demands, the committee questioned the continued delay in completing the crucial highway project and sought a written commitment from the state government specifying a deadline for completion of the remaining work.
In a memorandum submitted to the Public Works Department (PWD) minister, PRAC highlighted the deteriorating condition of NH-415, including the Bage Tinali–Doimukh stretch, stating that commuters, students, patients and business owners had been bearing the brunt of incomplete road construction and poor maintenance.
The committee pointed out that Chief Minister Pema Khandu had reportedly assured on October 2 that NH-415 Package-A would be completed within six months.
It demanded a similar assurance for Package-B, backed by a definite completion deadline and a transparent monitoring mechanism.
The committee also demanded the immediate filling of potholes, removal of construction debris, repair of damaged stretches and improvement of drainage facilities until permanent roadwork is completed.
It further called for a time-bound public grievance redressal mechanism, proposing that complaints be promptly acknowledged and inspected, with necessary action initiated within three hours wherever feasible.
Raising concerns over pedestrian safety, PRAC demanded mandatory footpaths along the highway, pointing out that students, elderly citizens and other pedestrians were being forced to walk on the main carriageway, exposing them to traffic hazards.
The committee also sought restrictions on festivals, political programmes and other public gatherings along the highway, particularly on the Bage Tinali–Doimukh stretch, arguing that such activities further aggravated traffic congestion.
It additionally demanded designated parking facilities for commercial establishments to prevent vehicles from occupying the highway and obstructing traffic movement.
PRAC legal adviser Techi Rana maintained that the agitation was not intended to confront the government but to demand accountability and practical solutions to problems affecting the public.
The committee urged the PWD to come up with a concrete action plan, clear deadlines and immediate measures to improve road conditions, stressing that commuters should not be left waiting indefinitely for a safe and properly maintained highway.
