Amritsar: Serious allegations of corruption have surfaced in the construction of a footpath from Jhabal Railway Crossing to Imban Kalan, raising concerns over quality and transparency in public infrastructure projects.
According to local reports, the project, awarded by the Public Works Department Punjab (PWD) to the National Highways Authority of India, involves a contract worth crores. However, residents allege that the construction is being carried out in violation of standard norms.
It has been claimed that tiles are being laid without proper planning or structure. Instead of using gravel as a base, construction debris is reportedly being used, and proper compaction methods are not being followed. Locals say tiles are being installed on uneven and weak surfaces, leading to early damage, with some portions already sinking.
Residents have further alleged that officials and ground-level staff of the department are ignoring complaints. Despite inspections reportedly conducted by Junior Engineer Gagan, no corrective action has been taken, raising questions about accountability.
Prominent locals, including Daljit Singh Babba, Manjit Singh Kala, Avtar Singh Bhullar, Dr. Deepak Singh Bohru, and others, have strongly criticized the government and demanded an independent probe into the matter. They have urged Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to ensure transparency and take strict action against those responsible.
Allegations have also emerged that in some cases, tiles are being installed outside private homes and shops on the recommendation of influential individuals, instead of being used for the designated public footpath—an act locals have termed highly objectionable.
Residents have demanded a thorough investigation, stating that misuse of public funds and poor-quality work must be exposed, ensuring that “truth prevails and accountability is fixed.”
