Ranchi: The Jharkhand government has decided to repair, reconstruct and improve the riding quality of nearly 10,000 kilometres of roads across the state at an estimated cost of ₹1,153 crore. The project covers around two-thirds of the state’s total road network.
Under the plan, around 3,218 km of roads will be reconstructed, while the riding quality of another 6,736 km will be improved. The initiative is aimed at strengthening road infrastructure, improving road safety and ensuring better connectivity across the state.
The decision was discussed at a meeting chaired by Road Construction Department Principal Secretary Sunil Kumar, who issued detailed instructions to officials regarding the quality and execution of road repair works.
₹1,153 Crore Approved for Road Repair and Reconstruction
The state government has approved more than ₹1,153 crore for road repair, reconstruction and strengthening works over a five-year period.
The plan includes:
- 3,218 km: Roads to be reconstructed.
- 6,736 km: Roads where riding quality will be improved.
- Nearly 10,000 km: Total road length covered under the initiative.
- ₹1,153 crore: More than the approved allocation for road repair and strengthening works over five years.
The government aims to ensure that road repair works are carried out according to prescribed technical standards rather than relying on temporary measures.
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Principal Secretary Orders Repairs as Per IRC Standards
Principal Secretary Sunil Kumar expressed concern over reports of negligence in road maintenance appearing in newspapers and other media platforms.
He criticised the practice of simply filling potholes with bituminous material without carrying out proper preparation work.
According to the instructions issued during the meeting, pothole repairs should involve proper:
- Cutting
- Squaring
- Compaction
- Bituminous treatment
He said that patchwork carried out without proper preparation is often temporary and can deteriorate quickly.
Officials have therefore been directed to ensure that pothole repairs are carried out in accordance with Indian Roads Congress (IRC) standards.
Full Bituminous Overlay Recommended for Roads With Multiple Potholes
The department has also issued instructions for roads that have a large number of potholes.
Instead of carrying out multiple small patches at different locations, officials have been asked to consider applying a bituminous overlay across the entire affected stretch, such as 100 metres or 200 metres, wherever required.
This approach is expected to provide greater durability and maintain the overall strength of the road surface.
The instructions also make road markings and other road safety equipment mandatory after repair work is completed.
Action Against Agencies Damaging Roads During Utility Work
The Principal Secretary also expressed displeasure with agencies involved in laying underground utilities, including electricity, water and sewerage pipelines.
Such agencies often dig up roads to install underground infrastructure but fail to restore the road surface according to prescribed standards.
This can result in:
- Uneven road surfaces
- Road damage
- Waterlogging
- Poor riding quality
The department has raised concerns about the restoration of roads after utility-related excavation and stressed the need for proper reinstatement.
Concern Over Road Conditions in Key Ranchi Stretches
The condition of several important roads in Ranchi was specifically discussed during the meeting.
The Principal Secretary expressed concern over the condition of roads including:
- LPN Shahdev Chowk–Booty More
- Namkum–Doranda
- Karamtoli–Ormanjhi
The poor condition of roads during the monsoon season was also a major concern.
The department questioned the working methods of officials and contractors and issued strict directions to improve the quality and timely completion of repair works.
₹27.63 Crore Additional Road Repair Plans Approved for Shravani Mela
In view of the upcoming Shravani Mela, the government has approved additional road repair and maintenance plans worth ₹27.63 crore.
Officials have been directed to complete all the related works at least one week before the start of the fair.
For the safety of pilgrims and other road users, the department has also instructed authorities to install necessary safety measures, including:
- Reflective signboards
- Cat’s eyes
- Delineators
These measures are aimed at improving road visibility and safety during the fair period.
Strict Action Against Contractors for Defective Road Work
The department has also taken a strict position on contractors who fail to repair defects during the Defect Liability Period (DLP).
The Principal Secretary directed officials to take action against contractors who do not rectify road defects within the stipulated period.
Such contractors may face measures including:
- Blacklisting
- Recovery of repair costs from their security deposits
The move is aimed at ensuring greater accountability among contractors and improving the long-term quality of road construction and maintenance work.
Five-Year Maintenance Funding for Bridges and Culverts
The government has also provided details of funds approved for the maintenance of bridges and culverts over the past five years.
- 2022-23: ₹250.00 crore
- 2023-24: ₹195.38 crore
- 2024-25: ₹202.40 crore
- 2025-26: ₹245.77 crore
- 2026-27: ₹259.51 crore
The funding is intended to support the maintenance and upkeep of bridges and culverts across the state.
Jharkhand Focuses on Better Roads and Stronger Road Safety
The Jharkhand government’s road repair and reconstruction plan is expected to cover a significant portion of the state’s road network.
With nearly 10,000 km of roads targeted for reconstruction and riding-quality improvements, the initiative places emphasis not only on repairing damaged stretches but also on ensuring that works meet technical standards and provide lasting results.
The additional road repair plans for the Shravani Mela, mandatory safety installations and proposed action against negligent contractors further underline the government’s focus on road quality, accountability and public safety.
