Contractor Negligence delays Indrali Railway Overpass Project: Udupi DC orders blacklisting

Team Udayavani, Jan 7, 2025, 9:14 AM IST

Manipal: Udupi Deputy Commissioner Dr. K. Vidyakumari directed officials to take strict action against contractors who failed to complete the Indrali Railway Overpass project within the stipulated timeframe. She recommended blacklisting the main contractor and subcontractors for their negligence.

In a progress review meeting held at the DC office regarding National Highway 169A’s Indrali Railway Overpass project, Dr. Vidyakumari expressed concern over the prolonged delay, which has caused severe inconvenience to the public.

The construction of the overpass was initiated in 2018 as part of the road widening project connecting Udupi and Manipal. The project involved constructing a steel overpass as mandated by the railway department. However, delays in completing the project have resulted in significant challenges for commuters.

The DC instructed the engineers to send formal letters to blacklist the primary and subcontractors responsible for the delay. She emphasized that the pending work must be completed with a well-devised plan.

In an earlier review meeting, the DC had instructed the contractors and NH division engineers to work day and night to ensure the overpass is opened for traffic by January 10.

Udupi Superintendent of Police Dr. Arun K. highlighted that the delay has not only inconvenienced the public but has also led to several accidents in the area. He warned that negligence cases could be filed against the contractors and engineers involved.

The review meeting was attended by Konkan Railway Senior Engineer Gopala Krishna, Assistant Executive Engineer of the Shringeri-Chikkamagaluru NH Division, and other senior officials.

The authorities assured the public that all possible measures would be taken to expedite the project and address safety concerns.