The campaign to make roads in Uttarakhand pothole-free has intensified. Secretary of the Public Works Department (PWD), Pankaj Pandey, has given clear instructions to officials that the work of making roads pothole-free must be completed by October 15 at any cost. Those officials who fail to meet this deadline will have adverse remarks recorded in their ACR (Annual Confidential Report).
Action on the Chief Minister’s Instructions
Following the directions of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, a campaign to make roads pothole-free across the state was initiated. However, due to negligence by some engineers and officials, their ACRs might now be at risk. During a review meeting, Pankaj Pandey stated that officials who fail to complete the work within the given deadline would face adverse remarks, which could directly impact their careers.
Strict Instructions in the Review Meeting
In a recently held review meeting, Secretary Pankaj Pandey directed officials across the state to expedite work to meet the target of pothole-free roads. Most officials assured that they would complete the work by the October 15 deadline. Additionally, if any road in their jurisdiction has not been included in the target for repair and remains unaddressed, the respective officer will also be held accountable for it.
Addressing Problems
During the review meeting, officials also raised concerns, citing challenges caused by the rainy season and contractors’ strikes. They reported that several contractors were unable to work due to strikes, which delayed road repairs. However, the Secretary instructed that in such cases, officials should have sought assistance from the district administration to resolve the issue according to the rules.
What’s Next?
With stricter measures in place, officials must now complete the work promptly. If the roads are not made pothole-free within the set deadline, adverse remarks will be recorded against the responsible officers, potentially affecting their ACRs and future promotions.
This campaign is a crucial step towards improving the condition of roads in Uttarakhand. It is expected to enhance the road infrastructure, making transportation smoother and providing better travel facilities for the people.
