The ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran have started to impact civic infrastructure in Kalyan-Dombivli. Disruptions in petroleum supply chains are affecting the availability and cost of bitumen, a crucial material for road repairs. As the monsoon season approaches, the city faces the prospect of pothole-ridden roads once again, as the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) struggles to appoint contractors for repair work.
Failed Tenders and Contractor Apathy
The civic body has floated tenders for pothole-filling work three times, but each time, no contractors have responded. Civic officials attribute this to global disruptions in petroleum supply, triggered by US-Iran tensions, which have more than doubled bitumen prices and made supply uncertain. Contractors argue that the tenders are based on outdated rates, making projects financially unviable. Contractor Amit Chandnani stated, "Without timely availability of bitumen and revised rates, it is not possible to undertake pothole repairs."
Worsening Road Conditions
Road conditions have deteriorated further due to ongoing excavation work for various infrastructure projects across the city. There are allegations that Mahanagar Gas conducted road digging at some locations without proper permission, leaving roads damaged and causing inconvenience to commuters. At a recent general body meeting, some corporators suggested using concrete instead of bitumen as a temporary measure to fill potholes. However, officials noted that this would require a fresh tender process, making it unlikely for work to begin before June.
KDMC's Response and Future Plans
City engineer Anita Pardeshi said the civic body is now including a price variation clause in tenders to account for rising bitumen costs. Last year, an early monsoon in late May worsened the pothole situation. While KDMC claims it is preparing in advance this year, the lack of contractor response remains a concern as the rainy season draws near.
