Bharatmala Drain Collapse in Lailapur Nearly Kills Worker, Locals Blame Shoddy Work

The ambitious Bharatmala project has once again come under fire as locals in Lailapur, bordering Cachar and Dima Hasao, have alleged that no cement was used in the construction of roadside drains under the scheme. The accusation follows a near-fatal incident earlier on Tuesday (April 22) when a drain slab collapsed on a labourer while he was removing shuttering at the site. Though the worker escaped with minor injuries, the incident has triggered massive outrage in the area.

Residents claim that the poor condition of the drain, developing cracks and structural failures within hours of construction, is a direct result of shoddy workmanship and the alleged use of substandard materials. “There was no cement used at all. It was just sand and gravel loosely packed,” said a resident. “This is public money going straight down the drain—literally.”

According to standard construction norms, cement is essential to bind the materials and ensure long-lasting durability. However, locals pointed out that the contractors blatantly ignored these norms to cut costs and maximise profits. “They’re playing with people’s lives. Anyone walking over this drain could have died,” said another resident.

The drain is part of the ongoing road development along the Silchar–Aizawl corridor under the Bharatmala Project. Similar complaints have been raised in other areas like Narsinghpur, Kabuganj, Dholai, and Bhaga, where residents have expressed anger over the lack of supervision and alleged collusion between contractors and officials.

Locals are now demanding an immediate investigation into the matter and strict action against those responsible. “If this is how the central government’s flagship infrastructure project is being executed, we fear for our safety and our money,” a resident said, urging authorities to intervene before another tragedy strikes.