Nongpoh, September 12, 2026: Extensive damage to the newly constructed PMGSY road connecting Pahammawlein with Umdap Rangi has raised concern among residents of Umdap, Chakhoikuna and adjoining villages in Ri-Bhoi district.
The road, which stretches for more than five kilometres, was reportedly completed only three to four months ago. However, residents and local leaders said several sections have already developed potholes and other signs of serious deterioration.
Village representatives, civil society organisations and women’s groups have alleged that the road was constructed using substandard materials and demanded immediate repair and reconstruction of the damaged stretches.
They further alleged that stones were hurriedly dumped into potholes and damaged portions on the night before a planned inspection, after information about their visit and proposed memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner emerged. They claimed the move was an attempt to temporarily conceal the extent of the damage.
The road serves as an important link for several villages and connects the Umdap area with Marmain and Umden. Residents said a properly constructed road would improve transportation, the movement of essential goods and livelihood opportunities in the area.
Leaders of the Confederation of Ri-Bhoi People (CoRP), 20 Mer Circle, alleged that the bituminous layer appeared noticeably thin from the time it was laid and questioned whether the construction had complied with prescribed quality standards.
They also questioned how officials responsible for inspecting and monitoring the project had certified the work as satisfactory.
The leaders warned that failure to properly reconstruct and repair the road would cause further hardship to residents, particularly as the government may not immediately sanction fresh funds for the same road under another scheme.
They also rejected claims that the damage was caused by overloaded goods vehicles, stating that heavy vehicles use the route only occasionally and alleging that poor construction quality was the primary reason for the deterioration.
Following their inspection, representatives of the affected villages, civil society organisations and women’s groups submitted a written complaint to Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Saini. They also submitted photographs showing the damaged portions and what they described as evidence of substandard construction.
CoRP president Pateng Marsing accompanied the delegation to the Deputy Commissioner’s office.
Speaking after the meeting, Marsing said the Deputy Commissioner had assured the delegation that the matter would be taken up immediately.
