Call to launch probe into assets of PWD, NHAI officials

The Ernakulam District Private Bus Operators Association has demanded a probe into the sources of income of PWD, NHAI and Kochi Corporation officials in charge of the upkeep of roads in the city and suburbs.

Police, vigilance and income tax officials must launch a probe into the assets of these officials, the association demanded.

Buses and other vehicles suffered damages and often broke down after negotiating the pock-marked roads maintained by these agencies.

Buses and other vehicles which fell into the potholes ended up with broken leaf springs and punctured tyres. The pathetic roads were also delaying traffic movement and increasing the operational and fuel expense of vehicles. The roads had made life miserable for commuters and pedestrians, the association alleged. “Officer-goers, workers and students are unable to reach their destination on time because of the inferior quality of roads,” Association general secretary M.B. Satyan said.

Mr. Satyan deplored the callous and negligent attitude of the officials at the helm of these agencies. He warned that buses would stay off the road if roadworks were not completed.

“The NHAI must take immediate steps to repair roads at Vyttila Junction where huge traffic snarls have become the norm. The potholes on the roads leading to the Vyttila Mobility Hub have made matters worse,” he said.

Potholes had also developed at many places on Kaloor-Kadavanthra Road.