Silchar: A newly built drain wall collapsed within 24 hours of concreting during an ongoing project on Kathal Road, prompting residents to allege substandard construction.The incident occurred near the Bank Colony-Laskar Lane junction, where a culvert-cum-drain is being constructed.According to sources, workers engaged by the contractor completed concreting a section of the drain on Thursday. Part of the wall collapsed on Friday afternoon, raising questions about the quality of materials and project execution.Residents alleged that poor-quality materials and inadequate supervision may have caused the collapse. They demanded an immediate inspection to determine whether engineering specifications and quality-control measures were followed.Residents also complained that the project disrupted movement in the area. Excavation of roads and drains, without adequate alternative arrangements, made daily commuting difficult, particularly for elderly people, children and pedestrians.Residents said the collapse warranted an investigation into the materials used, construction methods and supervision. They urged senior officials of the department concerned to conduct quality tests and take action if irregularities were established.The incident has raised concerns about the quality of public infrastructure projects in Silchar. Residents are awaiting action from the authorities.
