Regarding need to expedite construction work on NH 31 from Hajipur to Chhapra and bridges at Hajipur and Sheetalpur in Bihar-Laid

Regarding need to expedite construction work on NH 31 from Hajipur to Chhapra and bridges at Hajipur and Sheetalpur in Bihar-Laid SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY (SARAN): The NH-19 in Bihar, which has been re-designated as NH31 from Hajipur to Chhapra, has been under construction for the last 17 years. Recently, the third contractor or the concessionaire who was appointed has been terminated as the contract period is over. However, over the 17 years of construction, many challenges have emerged that require intervention, including addressing the issues created by the emergence of black spots, the requirement of underpasses, which cause major traffic hurdles and accidents. The bridges of Hajipur and Sheetalpur, which were a part of the earlier contract, have not been completed yet. More so, since there is no concessionaire for maintenance of the existing NH-31 (19), the deterioration of the riding quality of the National Highway between Hajipur and Chhapra has already commenced. In the absence of any maintenance scheme for the stretch of 55 kilometres, which in itself was delayed during the construction stage, a major challenge would be maintenance and the motorability of this NH. Hence, I urge the completion of the bridges and the remaining work, while establishing a long-term maintenance mechanism in the interest of the district of Saran and the State. ________ 12.30 hrs