PWD Seeks Fresh Sanction for Itanagar-Banderdewa Highway Package B

Itanagar, India Jul 24, 2026 ALN: [ Bengia Ajum ]

ITANAGAR, 23 Jul: The state PWD Highway Department is currently awaiting fresh sanction for the Package B portion of the Itanagar-Banderdewa four-lane highway from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). This project is critical not just for improving local transportation but also for enhancing the overall infrastructure within the region, which has been lagging behind in comparison to other parts of the country.

Package B, which stretches from Papu Hill to Nirjuli, was awarded to M/s Woodhill-Shivam (JV). However, the contractor’s agreement was terminated by the PWD Highway in April this year after it failed to complete the construction within the stipulated timeframe. This decision underscores the challenges faced by infrastructure projects in India, where delays can often lead to significant public dissatisfaction and economic repercussions.

Talking to this daily, PWD Highway Chief Engineer CS Choutang informed that, after the contract was terminated, the department initiated the process for floating a fresh tender for Package B. This step is crucial as it aims to ensure that the project does not face further delays, which could exacerbate the already poor condition of the road.

“After the contract was terminated, a reassessment of the balance work was carried out, and a new Detailed Project Report (DPR) was prepared. We have submitted it to the ministry for sanction. As soon as the sanction is accorded, we will float a fresh tender and resume work on Package B,” said Choutang. The preparation of a new DPR indicates a proactive approach by the PWD to rectify the previous contractor's shortcomings and to ensure that the next contractor is better equipped to meet the project's demands.

The chief engineer added that, although it is difficult to provide a definite timeline, the department expects to float the fresh tender within the next six months if everything proceeds as planned. This timeline reflects the complexities involved in public infrastructure projects, which often face bureaucratic hurdles and require multiple levels of approval before moving forward.

“We understand that the road is currently in a very bad condition and people are facing immense inconvenience. From our side, we are pursuing the ministry for early sanction. Until then, with the support of the state government, we will carry out maintenance work once the rains subside,” said Choutang. This acknowledgment of public frustration highlights the importance of effective communication between government agencies and the communities they serve, as well as the need for timely interventions to alleviate the impact of infrastructure failures on daily life.

He further informed that maintenance of roads within Itanagar will also be taken up in the coming days. The local government’s commitment to maintaining existing roads while awaiting the new project’s approval is a positive step, as it demonstrates a recognition of the immediate needs of the community.

The deteriorating condition of the Papu Hill-Naharlagun road has made life difficult for commuters using this stretch. Many residents of Naharlagun have taken to social media to vent their anger and frustration over the failure of the state government to maintain the road. Such public outcry is not uncommon in India, where the state of roads can significantly impact daily commuting, safety, and even economic activities. The reliance on social media as a platform for expressing grievances reflects a growing trend among citizens to hold their governments accountable in real-time.

M/s Woodhill-Shivam (JV) was awarded the contract on 8 December, 2021 for Rs 341,71,74,400. The project was scheduled to be completed by 6 December, 2024. The financial aspect of this project highlights the substantial investments being made in infrastructure development, which are critical for the economic growth of the region. However, the failure to meet deadlines raises questions about project management, contractor capabilities, and the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms.

Under the terms of the agreement, the contractor was required to mobilise adequate resources, execute the work with due diligence, achieve the prescribed project milestones within the stipulated timeframe, and maintain the highway in a safe and traffic-worthy condition throughout the construction period. The failure to fulfill these contractual obligations not only led to the termination of the agreement but also reflects broader issues within the construction industry, including the need for more stringent vetting processes for contractors and better monitoring of project progress.

However, the contractor failed to fulfil its contractual obligations, prompting the PWD Highway to terminate the agreement in April this year. At the time of termination, the physical progress of the project stood at only 51.37 per cent. This statistic is particularly concerning as it indicates that nearly half of the project was incomplete, which likely contributed to the frustration felt by local residents and commuters. The termination also raises questions about the accountability of contractors in public projects and the mechanisms in place to ensure that they adhere to their commitments.

The implications of these developments are far-reaching. The delays in the Itanagar-Banderdewa highway project could hinder economic growth in the region by affecting transportation efficiency and accessibility. Poor road conditions can also lead to increased vehicle maintenance costs for commuters and may pose safety risks. Furthermore, the public's dissatisfaction with infrastructure management can lead to a loss of confidence in government agencies, which may impact future projects and funding opportunities.

As the PWD Highway Department moves forward with the process of obtaining fresh sanctions and preparing for a new tender, it is essential for them to engage with the community to keep them informed and involved in the process. Transparency in project management and timely communication can help rebuild trust and ensure that the needs of the public are prioritized in the planning and execution of infrastructure projects.

In conclusion, the situation surrounding the Itanagar-Banderdewa highway Package B serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges involved in public infrastructure projects. It highlights the need for effective project management, accountability, and communication to ensure that such projects not only meet timelines but also serve the communities they are intended to benefit. The PWD's commitment to reassessing the project and initiating a fresh tender is a positive step, but it will require diligent follow-through to ensure that the project is completed successfully and meets the needs of the local population.