Irregularities Alleged in Paver Block Road Work; Villagers Demand Probe Over Use of Substandard Materials

Sinapali, July 4: Allegations of large-scale irregularities have surfaced in the ongoing paver block road construction at Kopia Bazar Pada under Makhapadar Gram Panchayat in Sinapali block of Nuapada district. Local residents have alleged that the project, being executed at an estimated cost of around ₹7 lakh, is being carried out in violation of prescribed construction standards, with substandard materials and allegedly duplicate cement being used. According to villagers, the quality norms laid down for government-funded construction works are not being followed. They alleged that inferior-quality cement is being used instead of standard materials, raising serious concerns about the durability and longevity of the project. They further stated that if quality standards are compromised in a publicly funded project, it would amount to a waste of public money. Residents have also questioned the absence of a mandatory project information board at the construction site. They pointed out that key details such as the total project cost, duration of the work, implementing agency, and the names of the concerned technical officials have not been displayed, raising concerns over transparency and accountability. Efforts were made to obtain the response of Sangram Keshari Parida, Junior Engineer of Sinapali Block, regarding the allegations. However, despite repeated attempts to contact him over the phone, he did not respond. As a result, his version on the matter could not be obtained. In light of the allegations, local residents have demanded an independent quality inspection, laboratory testing of the construction materials, and a high-level inquiry into the execution of the project. They have also urged the administration to make all project-related information public and to take appropriate action against those found responsible if any irregularities are established. The administration’s response to these allegations and the action it may initiate following an investigation are now being closely watched by the local community.