Protests Erupt in Banjar Over NH-305’s Poor Condition, Sangharsh Samiti Leads Demonstration

The deteriorating condition of National Highway (NH) 305 in Banjar has sparked public outrage. Under the leadership of the Struggle Committee, a large number of people organized a protest rally and staged a sit-in demonstration. The protesters demanded immediate repairs and widening of this crucial highway from the government and administration.

What Are the Locals Demanding?

1. Action Against Negligence in Road Maintenance
   The government has returned the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Banjar to Aut section of NH-305 with objections. The reason cited is that the company responsible for the road’s construction in 2021 was obligated to maintain it for the next five years. However, it failed to do so, worsening the road’s condition. Now, until the existing contract is canceled, a new DPR cannot be approved. Protesters are demanding that the contractor be immediately blacklisted, penalties be imposed, and their deposit be seized. Only then should the new DPR be sent to the ministry for approval.
2. Removal of Negligent Officials
   The locals accused the officials responsible for NH-305 of negligence and demanded their immediate transfer.
3. Revival of the Bypass Project
   The long-pending bypass project has caused significant inconvenience to the people. Protesters urged the government to resume and complete the project as soon as possible.
4. Additional DPR for Post-Disaster Repairs
   The devastating floods of 2022 severely damaged NH-305. Considering this, the government should prepare a separate proposal for post-disaster maintenance to prevent such issues in the future.
5. Expedited Land Acquisition for Road Widening
   The land acquisition process for NH-305 widening is ongoing but progressing at a slow pace. Locals are demanding that this process be expedited to ensure the completion of a double-lane highway in the coming years.

When Will the Government Take Action?

The people of Banjar believe that this road is crucial for the region’s development and tourism. However, if timely repairs and widening efforts are not undertaken, the highway will continue to be a problem for commuters. Now, all eyes are on the government to see how soon it responds to these demands.