SRINAGAR: The Beacon authorities have allegedly released payments to a contractor for railing works along the national highway from Shalteing to Narbal without ensuring adherence to quality standards and project specifications.
According to official records, the contractor was required to install nearly 5,000 galvanized posts along the divider of the highway.
However, an official stated that the contractor used substandard posts that were not galvanized, deviating from the specified size and quality. This has compromised both commuter safety and the integrity of the project specifications.
As per the project specifications, the galvanized posts must conform to IS:2629:1985 standards.
“Instead of using galvanized posts, the contractor installed low-quality iron posts, which have already started to rust even before the project’s completion. This poses a serious safety risk to commuters, especially during nighttime,” the official said.
The total cost of the project, according to official documents, exceeds Rs 8.49 crore, with the railing work covering a stretch of 14,900 meters along the 7.4-kilometer section from Shalteing to Narbal.
The official further alleged that the authorities failed to conduct proper quality checks to ensure the work met the stipulated specifications.
The project documents also specify that the railings should be painted in a tricolor pattern resembling the Indian national flag. However, the official added, this clause was also ignored, indicating gross negligence.
Additionally, the contract clearly states that the cost of all railings, gates, view-cutting, and other materials is to be included in the contract price, and all work must adhere to the latest approved specifications during execution.
Despite repeated attempts to contact senior Beacon official Commander 760 BRFT Ajmay Srivastav, he did not respond.
