DC reviews progress of work on NHW-244, Marmat Road

Excelsior Correspondent
DODA, Oct 30: Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh chaired a significant meeting with officials from the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to review the pace of work on NH-244 and the link road to Marmat.
The session primarily focused on enhancing security arrangements, including the installation of cameras and lights, deployment of Village Defence Guards (VDG) and Special Operations Groups (SOG) in strategic areas, and assessing the overall safety infrastructure along NH-244.
The meeting, held in the DC’s office chamber, was attended by SSP Mohammad Aslam; ADC, Sudershan Kumar; GM NHIDCL; ALC Nehal Pandit, and other NHIDCL officials. Traffic officials including the SSP and Dy. SP Traffic joined the discussion virtually.
The Deputy Commissioner underscored the need for safety installations like crash barriers, speed breakers, and rumble strips along critical stretches of the highway. He directed NHIDCL to set up two sentry posts near the tunnel on NH-244 and ensure rigorous monitoring of the road’s conditions for public safety.
He also emphasized the importance of deploying National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel and Aapda Mitra volunteers to be prepared for emergencies. Traffic officials were instructed to station volunteers near speed breakers to monitor and manage speeding vehicles, ensuring a safer commute for residents and travellers alike.
In a detailed discussion on security measures, DC Doda instructed NHIDCL to provide regular surveillance by monitoring live camera feeds to keep track of highway activities. The need for immediate improvements in lighting arrangements, especially in camps, was highlighted to ensure the safety of all personnel. DC also directed NHIDCL to coordinate with the Assistant Labour Commissioner (ALC) to facilitate insurance for all employees, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to worker welfare and safety.
SSP Traffic raised concerns about road safety, urging NHIDCL officials to increase the height of crash barriers and add solar-powered red lights at critical points. The DC directed NHIDCL to expedite work on NH-244 and the Marmat link road, stressing the administration’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure while prioritizing road safety and the security of citizens.