Maharashtra civic body faces pothole crisis as US-Iran tensions disrupt bitumen supply

KALYAN: The ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran have begun to affect civic infrastructure works in Kalyan-Dombivli, with disruptions in petroleum supply chains impacting the availability and cost of bitumen, a key material used for road repairs.

With the monsoon approaching, the city may once again face pothole-ridden roads, as repeated efforts by the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) to appoint contractors for repair work have failed. The civic body has floated tenders three times for pothole-filling work, but has received no response.

Civic officials said global disruptions in petroleum supply, triggered by geopolitical tensions, have affected the availability of bitumen. Prices have more than doubled, and supply remains uncertain, making it difficult for contractors to take up the work.

Contractors also said that the tenders are based on outdated rates, making the projects financially unviable. “Without timely availability of bitumen and revised rates, it is not possible to undertake pothole repairs,” said contractor Amit Chandnani.

Road conditions have worsened further due to ongoing excavation work for various infrastructure projects across the city. There are also allegations that road digging by Mahanagar Gas at some locations was carried out 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 said this would require a fresh tender process, making it unlikely for the work to begin before June.

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 approaches.


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