JANAKPURDHAM: A black-topped road, constructed by a Chinese company as part of the ongoing four-lane East-West Highway project, has developed cracks within a mere two weeks, revealing unexpected challenges in the construction process.

The road, connecting Kamala River to Kanchanpur in Saptari and bridging Dhanusha-Siraha, is grappling with issues related to the blacktop, causing alarm among residents.

Cracks have emerged in various locations just 7-10 days after the blacktopping, leading locals to attribute the problem to subpar work quality and express dissatisfaction.

Areas in Mirchaiya Municipality and Karjanha Municipality have reported torn tarpaulins, sparking concerns about the durability of the infrastructure.

Similar problems have been observed in the Musharnia area of Dhangadhimai Municipality, where cracks appeared within a week of black-topping.

Despite attempts to address the issue through additional blacktopping, community protests have erupted, underscoring concerns about the construction’s poor quality.

Even after three repair attempts, locals continue to report persistent issues, including uneven road surfaces.

The zero-mile area, constructed under a contract with China Railway No. 2 Engineering Group Company Limited, is facing criticism for violating international standards with bumps ranging from 15 to 20 mm, creating a jolting driving experience similar to a gravel road with potholes.

The construction of the four-lane highway, supported by a loan from the Asian Development Bank, was entrusted to the Chinese company for the 44.400 km project.

Despite the initial completion on October 28, 2023, delays attributed to the sluggish pace of the Chinese company prompted a deadline extension until December 27, 2024.

However, with only 46.2 percent of the work completed to date, concerns persist about meeting the extended deadline.

In response to the challenges, the Chinese company has temporarily halted construction to investigate widespread issues, allegedly due to incompetent Chinese technicians.

Under the agreement, the company is responsible for maintenance and necessary upkeep for one year after handing over the road to the Nepal government.

Doubts, however, linger about completing the remaining 54 percent of the project within the stipulated 10-month timeframe, raising concerns about the overall success of this significant infrastructure endeavor.

Sources emphasize that Chinese companies must face scrutiny for subpar work, citing a mandatory 5-year maintenance clause with no room for substandard quality, as stipulated by local authorities.

The Chinese company has been embroiled in numerous disputes since the inception of the highway construction, with initial widespread road excavations disrupting the surroundings, followed by a subsequent slowdown in work, leaving roads unfinished.