Concerns raised over substandard materials used in Nihal Khan khoso road construction

Dr Abdul Waheed Mastoi
SUKKUR: Villagers in Nihal Khan, Sukkur district, have voiced concerns about the quality of ongoing development work in their area, specifically the construction of a drainage and tuff tile road. Despite reports of contractors using substandard materials, local authorities and elected representatives seem to be turning a blind eye to the issue.
According to residents, contractor Basheer Ahmed Mahar reportedly utilized inappropriate materials during the construction process, leading to concerns about the road’s durability even before its completion. A recent incident further exacerbated these concerns, as a rickshaw carrying construction materials crashed due to apparent ground subsidence on the newly installed tuff tiles.
Frustrated villagers shared their grievances on social media, demanding strict action against the contractor and those responsible for overlooking the poor construction quality. They argue that asphalt and stone should be the primary materials for constructing roads, citing global practices where tuff tiles are typically reserved for footpaths.
Adding to the residents’ disappointment, reports claim that their complaints to officials have gone unaddressed. This lack of responsiveness and apparent neglect have fueled further disillusionment with the construction project and those supposed to oversee its quality.
The situation in Nihal Khan highlights the importance of accountability in development projects. Residents deserve safe and lasting infrastructure, and using substandard materials not only poses immediate risks but also wastes valuable resources. Authorities must investigate these concerns promptly, take necessary action against those responsible, and ensure responsible utilization of public funds for infrastructure projects in the future.