Assam: MP Gaurav Gogoi Urges Gadkari on Urgent Repairs for NH 37

• Image Credit: Google

• Jul 24, 2024 | Guriya Khatun

Gogoi expressed deep concerns about NH 37, particularly highlighting that the tender process for the Jorhat to Jhanji section extending to Dibrugarh has been initiated and cancelled three times. 

Digital Desk: Jorhat Member of Parliament Gaurav Gogoi met with Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday during the ongoing Monsoon Session in Parliament. The focus of their meeting centered on the dire need for repairs to National Highway 37 (NH 37) in Assam, which has been rapidly deteriorating.

Gogoi expressed deep concerns about NH 37, particularly highlighting that the tender process for the Jorhat to Jhanji section extending to Dibrugarh has been initiated and cancelled three times. He voiced skepticism regarding the success of the ongoing fourth round of the tender process.

In his meeting with Gadkari, Gogoi underscored the critical condition of NH 37, which serves as a vital lifeline for residents and commuters in Assam. Despite previous efforts, such as a letter in July 2023, a "Matter Under Rule 377" during the last winter session of the 17th Lok Sabha, and another letter on January 12, 2024, significant improvements have not materialized.

The MP detailed issues across various sections of the highway:

• Nagaon to Jakhalabandha Section: Frequent repairs have been necessary due to defective construction. Cracks and uneven surfaces appeared within a year. Despite Gogoi's communications with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and NHAI officials, substantial improvements have not been achieved.
• Numaligarh to Jorhat Section: Similar problems persist, with poor riding quality attributed to inadequate supervision during construction.
• Jorhat to Jhanji and Dibrugarh: This segment remains incomplete, contributing to numerous road accidents and fatalities.

Gogoi also highlighted that despite a recent visit by the Prime Minister to Teok (Jorhat), which may have exposed the poor conditions of NH 37, significant changes have not been made. He pointed out that previous contractors lacked financial stability and capability, resulting in prolonged delays over the past decade.

Given the heavy rainfall in Assam and the northeastern region, Gogoi proposed the construction of concrete roads instead of bituminous ones to enhance durability and longevity.

Gogoi urged Gadkari to promptly intervene, address these critical issues, oversee urgent repairs, and ensure the timely completion of the 4-lane highway for the benefit of the public.