KOCHI: The condition of some of the major roads in the city that were repaired merely six months ago has been pathetic causing much distress to the commuters who have to negotiate through these stretches with a lot of difficulties.The Corporation is remaining mute even after the roads have been completely destroyed within four months after their repair. This points to the unholy nexus between the Corporation officials and the contractors.The most-affected stretches are the ones between Thevara College and UP Bridge, the road in front of the Fine Arts Hall, the Rajaji Road near KSRTC bus station, the Cross Road near SRV High School and SRM Road. The road at Iyattumukku has also developed dangerous potholes. Gandhi Nagar, Azad Road, Shenoy road and Chittoor Road which were repaired four months ago have been completely destroyed during the monsoon season.According to Opposition councillor K J Jacob, the civic body has spent Rs 22 crore to improve and maintain the arterial roads. This include the Rs 18 crore that was sanctioned during the tenure of the last council for repairing major roads. But some of these roads which were repaired one month ago have been been damaged. The contractors have failed to provide at least one-year guarantee to the roads.A senior Ruling councillor expressed resentment over the councils attitude to the contractors.“Last month the council decided that the roads which are damaged within one year will be again repaired with the expense of contractors who had carried out the repair works.But now the Corporation is moving to seek the aid of the government to save the contractors.The enthusiasm shown by the UDF on the issue of roads at the time of local body elections has died down. The terrible condition of roads is the best example of its lethargic attitude. Corruption exists right from the process of floating of tenders to the final tarring work,” Councillor N Venugopal said.
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