Almora.
Union Minister and MP from Almora, Ajay Tamta, through a press release, leveled serious allegations against Congress and the local MLA, stating that an important matter concerning the interest of Almora was obstructed due to political motives.
Ajay Tamta said that in September 2024, a landslide zone of nearly 200 meters had formed near Quarb. Considering the seriousness of the issue, the technical committee of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, along with experts from THDC and IIT, inspected the area and suggested two treatment plans – Hill Side Treatment and Valley Side Treatment.
He informed that a DPR of ₹51.37 crore for Hill Side Treatment and ₹17.14 crore for Valley Side Treatment was submitted to the Government of India, which was approved immediately at his request. The tender process for both projects has been completed, and the work will be executed within the stipulated timeline.
Tamta further stated that to ensure public convenience during the ongoing works at Quarb Conic Zone, he proposed the construction of an alternative road. Based on the estimates prepared by PWD Almora, approval for a 1.70 km-long motor road and a valley bridge costing ₹10.23 crore was granted by the Government of India on 26 May 2025.
He alleged that the PWD started the work on 16 June 2025 with a target to complete it by 15 September 2025. However, on 18 June, Congress leaders and MLA Manoj Tiwari strongly opposed the project, insisting on a tender process, which led to the suspension of the work. As a result, the project is now rescheduled to commence on 19 September 2025.
Raising sharp questions against Congress, Ajay Tamta said, “If you had doubts about the departmental process, you should have demanded a technical inspection instead of opposing the alternative route that was being built for public convenience. Because of your actions, the construction work has been delayed by four months.”
He further added that Congress must stop misleading the public and clarify whether, in times of disaster, it expects people to wait for the lengthy tender process or support the quick construction of an alternative route to provide immediate relief.
In conclusion, Ajay Tamta said that the BJP and the Government of India prioritize public convenience and safety, while Congress is only engaged in creating political controversies. He demanded that Congress explain to the people why they opposed the construction of an alternative route meant to benefit Almora.
