The collapse of the approach road to the newly constructed bridge at Nanda ki Chowki in Dehradun has raised questions about the pattern of infrastructure development in Uttarakhand. Are such incidents the result of corruption – with poor quality materials being used because kickbacks have been paid – or just bad project planning by the civil engineers? Also, have not advances been made in construction technology that can overcome the challenges posed by flash floods and other natural phenomena? That this should be happening in a state where institutions like IIT Roorkee, with a reputed civil engineering department in existence since the times of the British, are available for consultation is truly tragic.
There have also been breakthroughs in construction material development with higher resilient properties, which are also competitively priced. There is much greater understanding of natural forces, the pattern of water flow and ‘training’ of rivers. The Nanda ki Chowki road collapse is being attributed to a sudden and targeted flow of water into that particular section, while much of the riverbed remains choked with rocks, mud and other material.
The problem of water breaking river banks throughout the state is due to the lack of depth in the rivers as the obstructions are not cleared. The lack of scientific quarrying and river flow alterations because of illegal excavations, as also dumping of construction and other waste, etc., exacerbates the difficulties. And, of course, the increased tendency to occupy land right next to the riverbanks for house and hotel construction constricts, often diverts, water flow and poses a threat to human lives.
All these and other factors are well known to the authorities concerned but there does not seem to be a comprehensive approach developed by them. Politicians, who should be providing the will and direction to bring about in depth and long term changes seem to be content with ‘directing’ their subordinates to get work done in time irrespective of challenges. It is a fact that many projects are proposed and approved only because there are higher kickbacks for vested interests. On many occasions environmental concerns are disregarded for the sake of ‘visible’ development.
There is infrastructure growth needed for places where even the basics are not available. However, thought needs to be given to expansion that seeks to serve the interests of a growing consumerist culture. If the roads are built, then even bigger cars are bought. Since they choke the roads, wider roads are needed. As such, focus has also to be on promoting a sustainable lifestyle, particularly in the hills. But, is anybody listening?
