When a newly built road begins to crumble within a day: A disturbing reflection of public accountability

The alleged use of substandard material in the ongoing macadamization of the Khellani–Dranga Goha road in Doda has triggered widespread public outrage and raised serious questions about the quality of public works and the accountability of those entrusted with taxpayers' money. 

After waiting nearly fifteen long years for the road to be resurfaced, the people of Khellani, Dranga, and Goha had every reason to celebrate. Unfortunately, that hope reportedly turned into disappointment when the newly laid blacktop began peeling off within a single day. If these claims are confirmed, it would represent a shocking failure in quality control and a serious breach of public trust. 

The anger expressed by local residents is understandable. Roads are not built merely for ceremonial inaugurations or to complete official paperwork—they are lifelines that connect villages, support economic activity, ensure access to education and healthcare, and improve the daily lives of ordinary citizens. When such infrastructure allegedly fails immediately after construction, it raises legitimate concerns about whether prescribed engineering standards were followed. 

The allegations made by the protesters are serious. They have accused the executing agency and supervising officials of negligence and demanded an independent inquiry. These demands deserve prompt and impartial consideration. Every rupee spent on public infrastructure comes from the hard-earned money of taxpayers. Any compromise in quality is not merely poor workmanship—it is an injustice to the people and a betrayal of public confidence. 

The administration must treat this issue as a test of its commitment to transparency and accountability. A high-level technical inspection should be conducted without delay. If the allegations of inferior material or poor execution are established, strict action must follow against every individual responsible, irrespective of rank or influence. Contractors found violating contractual obligations should face blacklisting, financial penalties, and legal consequences wherever warranted. 

Equally important is the need to halt payments related to the disputed work until an independent quality audit is completed. Public funds cannot be released for work that is under serious question. Development projects should never become opportunities for negligence or profiteering at the expense of citizens. 

The people of Khellani–Dranga Goha have sent a clear message: they are not willing to accept cosmetic development or infrastructure that cannot withstand even a day of normal use. Their protest is not merely about a road—it is about demanding honesty, accountability, and respect for public resources. 

The administration now has an opportunity to restore public confidence through swift, transparent, and decisive action. A fair investigation, strict enforcement of quality standards, and exemplary action against anyone found responsible will demonstrate that public welfare is above vested interests. 

The people have waited fifteen years for a durable road. They deserve a road that lasts for years—not one that begins to disappear within hours. 

(The author is Devraj Thakur, Research Analyst | Education & Social Issues and National Joint Secretary, Akhil Bhartiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh – Bharat. Contect @ drthakur868@gmail.com