Md Russel.Mia, Amtali (Barguna)

Just 15 days after the renovation of a 19-kilometer section of the 71-kilometer Patuakhali-Kuakata highway, potholes have appeared at various places. This is causing extreme hardship to drivers and passengers. Locals allege that the road surface has deteriorated in such a short period of time due to poor quality and irresponsible work. They have demanded a prompt investigation into the irregularities, action against those responsible and the repair of the damaged road.

It is known that in 2000, the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) constructed the 71-kilometer Patuakhali-Kuakata highway. There are allegations that due to irregularities in the construction work, potholes appeared at various places on the road within a few years. Later, some parts of the road were renovated in 2018. Currently, about 912 different types of vehicles ply on this highway every day. In addition, a large number of Mahindra, trolley, CNG and battery-powered auto-rickshaws also use this road.

According to sources, the work of repairing the 19-kilometer road from Patuakhali bus stand to Mahishkata stand began in early June this year and was completed on June 30. However, within just 15 days of the completion of the work, hundreds of potholes have formed at different places on the road. The condition of the approximately 5-kilometer road from Sakhariya to Mahishkata is particularly critical.

It has been observed on the ground that in many places in the renovated section, the pitch has lifted, creating large potholes. Vehicles often avoid these potholes, creating traffic jams and the risk of accidents.

Passengers Tanzila, Zia Uddin Jewel and Nazrul Islam said, "We saw renovation work on the road a few days ago. However, within a short time, the road has become worse than before."

Tuhin Paribahan driver Saddam Mia said, "Driving is very difficult due to potholes on the road. It is not normal for a newly renovated road to be in such condition in just 15 days."

Drivers Md. Nizam Uddin, Salam and local residents Imran, Russell and Shah Alam demanded a speedy investigation and action against those responsible.

However, denying the allegations, Mohammad Monirul Islam, Sub-Divisional Engineer of Patuakhali Roads and Highways Department, said that potholes have formed at various places on the road due to natural disasters. Steps will be taken to repair the damaged parts as soon as possible.