June 17, 2025: Cracks have appeared on Boscowadi Road in Babanpada, Gorai, just weeks after its completion, prompting local residents to protest against what they allege to be substandard construction work. The one-kilometre stretch, built between October 1, 2024 and May 25, 2025, is now undergoing repairs following public pressure.
On June 8, concerned villagers alerted advocate Godfrey Pimenta—trustee of the Watchdog Foundation and advisor to the Gorai Villagers Welfare Association—who subsequently raised the issue with the BMC Commissioner the next day. By June 10, authorities commenced repairs on the newly laid road.
“This is the result of collective community action,” said Pimenta. “When people speak out, things change. Roads should last 20 to 25 years, not show cracks in a month. This is unacceptable.” He confirmed that while some sections with visible cracks had already been repaired, other parts were being excavated and re-laid with new concrete.
Villagers criticised the use of inferior materials and inadequate construction practices. Rossi D’Souza, sarpanch of the Gorai Gaothan Panchayat, pointed out that heavy vehicular traffic and insufficient curing time had likely contributed to the road’s premature deterioration.
“If quality materials had been used, we wouldn’t be seeing such damage so soon,” said Switsy Henriques, president of the Gorai Villagers Welfare Association. “A road is expected to last for years, not mere weeks. Holding the contractor accountable will send a clear message.”
She further noted that despite a five-year repair warranty, such early structural issues indicate deeper problems in execution and oversight. Repeated attempts to contact BMC officials for clarification regarding accountability and contractor penalties went unanswered.
The incident has reignited debates around civic quality control and the need for greater transparency in public infrastructure projects.
Source: Mid-day
