M A I L B A G

Bridge collapse: Punish the guilty officers

The reported collapse of a new bridge, undergoing a load test before being commissioned in Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh brings disgrace to the State PWD Department. Obviously, faulty design and use of substandard material are responsible for this disgusting episode. (Editorial, “Weight of corruption”, Nov 21).

The Public Works Departments across the country are known for corrupt practices. Besides the normal 10-15 per cent cut, much higher bribes are entertained. The contractors vie with each other to get PWD contracts, as the nexus between them and the officials is mutually beneficial.

The Kinnaur bridge collapse must be thoroughly investigated with promptitude, impartially and those responsible for this damning act punished. With many construction companies of international repute in the field, tendering of important works should be done to minimise corruption, at the highest level by a screening committee.

Brig. H.S. CHANDEL (retd), Una

II

It is sad that a new bridge undergoing a load test collapsed before it was opened for traffic at Tashigang in Pol sub-division of Kinnaur district. Worse, three people were drowned including a PWD Junior Engineer.

This speaks volumes for the irresponsible functioning of the PWD officials. The deteriorating moral values and one’s insatiable thirst for money in the PWD and society as a whole are well known. But the problem of engineers is that they approve of faulty designs and play with the lives of people for personal gains. Most of the time, top officials responsible for the mishap go unpunished. And those at the lower level are made scapegoats. They too are suspended temporarily until the whole issue calms down.

The general mentality is that one can get away with such things sooner or later. Corruption in the PWD has its roots deep—from lower to the top levels. The only solution to this is strict action against the guilty. They should be sacked immediately. The long inquires will only benefit the guilty as they find enough time to find loopholes in the law and some how cover up everything.

SAPNA CHAUHAN, New Shimla

III

Corruption has become very common these days. This evil is spread in all fields of life. Taking and giving of bribes is a common thing now. We have become immoral. We are running after money all the time. 
As the anti-corruption laws are hardly enforced against officers and the big fish, people must unite to fight against corruption. We should boycott those who are corrupt.

SUNNY NIJHAWAN, Karnal

Blow to consumers

The Haryana Electricity Board has arbitrarily increased the power tariff. In addition, unscheduled power cuts and voltage fluctuations have dealt another blow to the consumers. Till now we could deposit the electricity bills in any branch of Centurian Bank of Punjab. This facility has been abruptly withdrawn and now we have to deposit them at its Industrial area office.

The new place is far off and we have to stand in long queues as all the power consumers of Panchkula have to deposit their bills here. This is causing hardship to housewives and senior citizens. The Haryana Chief Minister should take prompt remedial action and save the residents from avoidable harassment.

Dr O.N. BHARGAVA, Panchkula

Nuclear deal

I welcome the US Congress’ approval of the Indo-US nuclear deal. It will help the interests of both countries. It will help India harness power to meet the growing need for power without increasing air pollution.

For the US, the deal signifies a new strategic partnership. Rooted in the democratic values, it will strive for peace and prosperity.

CHAMAN SINGH, Bhucho (Bathinda)