Guwahati, 23rd May: In Karimganj, Assam, the road construction department has come under scrutiny for using domestic gas cylinders in road construction projects, a clear violation of safety and regulatory standards. This issue surfaced during the construction of a road from AOC Point to Baba Hotel, a project managed by Binny Construction.
As the road work approached completion, workers began marking the roadside with white paint. Observations revealed that the machinery used for this task was fueled by domestic gas cylinders instead of the required commercial-grade equipment. Upon noticing a journalist’s camera, workers attempted to hide the cylinders with cloths, indicating their awareness of the infraction.
The use of domestic cylinders for commercial purposes is not only illegal but also poses significant safety hazards. Despite being financially and politically influential, the contractor opted for three domestic cylinders to power their equipment, circumventing the legal mandate for commercial gas cylinders.
Additionally, more domestic cylinders were spotted in another machine atop a truck, marked as property of the road construction department. This raises serious concerns about accountability and the enforcement of laws, especially when powerful contractors are involved.
Following this discovery, fines were imposed on several shopkeepers supplying these cylinders. However, the incident underscores a broader issue: the need to ensure all contractors, irrespective of their influence, comply with safety regulations and legal standards. This controversy highlights the urgent necessity for stringent enforcement and oversight to prevent such dangerous practices in future projects.
Read More: Tipra Motha Founder Accuses Congress of “Use and Throw” Policy, Vows to Defend Indigenous Rights