Experts suggest that poor oversight, compromised construction practices, and a lack of rigorous maintenance protocols are the primary culprits.
The recent collapse of the roof at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport's Terminal 1 has once again highlighted the alarming state of India's critical public infrastructure. This tragic incident, which claimed the life of a cab driver, is not an isolated event, but rather part of a concerning trend of infrastructure failures across the country.
Cracks, Leaks, and Collapses
Just last week, the newly inaugurated Atal Setu approach road in Navi Mumbai, Mumbai, developed major cracks, leading to a public outcry and swift repairs. Similarly, the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya reported seepage issues, while the recently opened coastal road tunnel in Mumbai experienced leakage within three months of its inauguration. In Bihar, a state notorious for bridge collapses, four small bridges have collapsed in the last 10 days alone.
Politicizing the Failures
The blame game surrounding the Delhi airport incident is also telling. While the opposition Congress party accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of inaugurating an incomplete terminal, the BJP countered that the collapsed structure was actually inaugurated by the previous government in 2009. This political posturing does little to address the underlying issues plaguing India's infrastructure.
Systemic Failures
These recurring failures of critical public infrastructure, often shortly after inauguration, point to deeper systemic problems. Experts suggest that poor oversight, compromised construction practices, and a lack of rigorous maintenance protocols are the primary culprits.
Accountability and Responsibility
The question of who is to blame for these infrastructure failures is a complex one. The government, responsible authorities, and construction companies all share a degree of responsibility. Robust regulatory frameworks, stringent quality control measures, and effective maintenance programs are essential to ensure the safety and longevity of India's public infrastructure.
The collapse of the Delhi airport terminal roof and the numerous other infrastructure failures across the country are a wake-up call. India must address these systemic issues with urgency to prevent further tragedies and safeguard the well-being of its citizens. Accountability, transparency, and a renewed focus on quality and maintenance are crucial steps towards building a more resilient and reliable infrastructure network.
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