Water mixed in road adhesive drums in Murshidabad; Locals demand investigation into supervisor's role

Residents of Sultanpur Paschimpara in Murshidabad were shocked to find workers allegedly mixing water into blue drums of adhesive designated for road construction. The drums were clearly labeled with the warning “Do Not Mix Water,” prompting immediate concerns about the quality and effectiveness of the materials being utilized for road repairs. Eyewitnesses reported that the mixing occurred under artificial lighting in the evening, leading locals to approach the workers for clarification about the unusual practice.

When questioned, the workers indicated that they were following directives from a supervisor, who was reportedly absent from the site during the incident. This lack of oversight raised alarm bells among the community, prompting them to demand accountability for what they perceived as a breach of public safety standards. Efforts to contact the supervisor for a comment were unsuccessful, leaving residents frustrated and seeking answers. As the situation unfolded, a larger crowd gathered at the site, voicing their concerns about the potential risks to road safety and the effective use of public funds in infrastructure projects.

The incident is particularly concerning given the context of recent heavy rainfall in the region, which has led to extensive damage to road infrastructure across Murshidabad. Reports indicate that numerous roads have developed significant potholes and some areas have experienced landslides, necessitating immediate repair efforts by local authorities. The current road construction project, which spans multiple areas including Sultanpur and neighboring Bhagirathpur, was initiated to restore damaged roads and improve accessibility. However, the allegations of water being mixed with the adhesive used in the repairs have cast doubt on the quality control measures in place, prompting calls for an investigation into the materials and practices employed.

In light of the community's concerns, the Murshidabad Public Works Department has been alerted and is expected to initiate a thorough investigation into the handling of materials at the site. This inquiry will focus on several key aspects, including the supervisory practices employed during road construction, the procedures for mixing and applying construction materials, and the overall compliance with safety regulations. The department aims to ensure that proper protocols are followed in future projects to prevent similar incidents from occurring. Additionally, local authorities have expressed their commitment to transparency and accountability in the management of public works, with the goal of safeguarding the integrity of infrastructure projects and maintaining public trust in government initiatives.