Several World Bank-funded road infrastructure projects in Shangla district have come under criticism from residents, transporters and civil society groups over prolonged delays, alleged substandard work and worsening road conditions.

The affected routes include the Karora-Ajmeer Road, Dandai-Chakesar Road, Board-Puran Road and Karora-Chakesar Road. Local people say the poor condition of these roads has created serious difficulties for commuters, traders, students, patients and transporters across the mountainous district.

Recent heavy rains have further damaged several sections of the roads, leaving parts of the routes dangerous and difficult to use. Residents said rocks, debris and eroded surfaces have made travel slow and risky, while vehicles are frequently damaged because of the broken roads.

The projects were launched under World Bank-supported development initiatives aimed at improving connectivity in Shangla. However, residents and transporters allege that despite the allocation of billions of rupees, the pace of work remains slow and construction quality is below expected standards.

Transporters said repeated complaints and protests have not led to effective action. They claimed that temporary measures, including the dumping of sand and soil on damaged sections, were used instead of proper repairs. Much of this material was washed away during recent rains, leaving the roads in poor condition again.

Local traders said the deteriorating roads have disrupted business activity by affecting the movement of goods and customers. Patients, students, government employees and daily commuters are also facing delays and additional travel costs.

Residents pointed in particular to the Karora-Ajmeer Road, saying its construction deadline expired on March 18 but less than 20 percent of the work has reportedly been completed.

Concerns have also been raised about protection walls built along the Karora-Chakesar Road. Residents allege that several retaining and protective structures have weakened from their foundations, while videos circulating on social media have added to public criticism of the project’s quality and supervision.

Social activists, political representatives and members of civil society said the road projects require urgent attention from the World Bank, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and the relevant departments.

In Tehsil Kana, the Kana Action Committee has held several demonstrations against delays and alleged poor construction quality. Residents of Tehsil Chakesar and Tehsil Puran have also expressed concern over the slow pace and standard of ongoing work.

Public circles have demanded a transparent inquiry into the alleged delays and construction defects. They have also called for accountability of those responsible and completion of the projects on an emergency basis.

Residents said timely and high-quality completion of the road projects is essential for improving transport, trade, access to healthcare and daily mobility in Shangla.

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