Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, OCT 12:

The Public Rights Action Committee (PRAC) has reaffirmed its decision to stage a peaceful rally on October 13, 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.

In a press conference held at the Arunachal Press Club (APC) here on Monday, the committee questioned the Public Works Department (PWD) over the repeated delays in road construction, despite citing adverse weather conditions, difficult geographical terrain and public activities, including earth cutting, as reasons for the slow progress.

PRAC expressed concern that the work remains incomplete despite nearly two years having elapsed and questioned the credibility of the department’s assurance that the pending work could be completed within the next two to three weeks.

The committee also objected to what it termed attempts to hold the public responsible for the delay, stating that commuters continue to suffer due to the poor condition of the roads despite regularly paying taxes.

Reiterating its stand, PRAC said the proposed agitation would continue until the authorities provided a concrete and permanent solution to the grievances instead of making temporary assurances.

The committee also recalled Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s commitment in 2021 regarding the road project and demanded accountability for the unfulfilled promise. It further called for the Chief Minister’s resignation if the commitment could not be honoured.

The peaceful rally will commence at 9 am from Kangkar Nallah towards Nirjuli on October 13, the committee stated while appealing public to join the rally to pressure the state government for better road condition

PRAC said the protest aims to secure a lasting resolution to the road-related problems faced by commuters and ensure accountability for the prolonged delay in completing the infrastructure project.