Newly built drain at Tangmarg damaged within days, residents cry foul

Baramulla: The residents of Rahipora Tangmarg in Wailoo block have raised serious concerns over the use of substandard materials in the construction of a drain, which got damaged just a few days after its completion.
Locals, who expressed disappointment, told a local news gathering agency that the drain, built in December, was sanctioned to address the long-standing issues faced by them. “The contractor failed to deliver as expected. The construction lasted only a few days and there seems to be no cement used in the work. It is a complete failure,” Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, a local, said.
The locals accused officials of hand-in-glove with the contractor, claiming that proper inspections were not carried out. “Officials should have ensured quality work, but it seems they are only concerned with clearing bills,” a local alleged. “The project was sanctioned after long standing demand by the residents, who faced significant hardships due to the lack of proper drainage. However, the damage in the drainage has left them frustrated,” the locals added.
Meanwhile, in response to the allegations, Sub-District Magistrate (SDM), Gulmarg assured that an inquiry would be initiated to investigate the matter. “We will conduct a thorough probe and ensure accountability,” the SDM said, adding that he will be visiting spot personally to assess the situation and those found guilty won’t be spared