Patiala, July 6 -- The district administration on Sunday ordered a probe after a contractor was found carrying out road carpeting work in the city's Urban Estate area amid heavy rainfall, triggering concerns over wastage of public money.

According to road construction experts, hot bitumen is designed to adhere to a clean and dry surface. Laying asphalt during rainfall can prevent proper bonding between the new bituminous layer and the existing road surface, increasing the likelihood of premature deterioration, potholes and reduced durability.

Deputy commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal said the Patiala Urban Planning and Development Authority (PDA) had been directed to initiate action against the contractor and ascertain why the work continue...