Kalyan-Ambernath Road Project Under Fire Over Construction Issues and Shopkeepers’ Complaints

The ongoing construction of the Kalyan-Ambernath road in Ulhasnagar, Maharashtra, has stirred controversy, with allegations of contractor negligence and poor construction practices. The project’s contractor has been accused of cutting corners by overlaying new concrete directly over the existing road without proper excavation. This decision has led to concerns, particularly among local shopkeepers, who fear that the new road’s elevated level will result in waterlogging during the monsoon season, causing damage to their businesses.

Kumar Ailani, the local BJP MLA, took notice of the complaints raised by the shopkeepers and visited the site to assess the situation. His inspection revealed that the road had been built improperly, with the new cement layer causing the surface to rise above the level of the adjacent shops. Ailani promptly halted the construction work, urging the Public Works Department (PWD) officials to address the issue. He demanded that a proper plan be put in place to prevent water from flooding the shops, a common concern during the rainy season. In addition to these concerns, the Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation (UMC) voiced objections to the construction process, accusing both the contractor and the PWD department of failing to adhere to the proper elevation standards. UMC’s city engineer, Tarun Sevkani, stressed the importance of coordination between the state PWD and the local municipal authorities to ensure the road is constructed to the correct level, avoiding issues such as water entering the shops. The road, a crucial 3-kilometre stretch connecting Kalyan and Ambernath, is being built at a cost of Rs 63 crore. It is intended to ease traffic congestion and improve accessibility in the region. However, the poor execution of the project has raised concerns over its effectiveness and the potential long-term impact on the local community.

MLA Kumar Ailani has been vocal about the negligence displayed during the construction process, calling for strict action against the responsible PWD engineer. He has demanded accountability for the errors that led to the current situation, urging that steps be taken to rectify the construction flaws and avoid further complications. In response to the criticism, a senior PWD official assured that the road would be levelled to ensure that shopkeepers do not face any inconvenience. The contractor has been instructed to carefully consider the correct road levels moving forward, with a focus on preventing waterlogging and ensuring that the construction is completed to the proper standards. This incident highlights the critical need for attention to detail in public infrastructure projects, particularly when they directly impact the daily lives of local residents and businesses. While the Kalyan-Ambernath road project has the potential to enhance the area’s connectivity, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining high standards in construction practices to avoid unnecessary disruption and ensure the safety and well-being of the community.