Under the given conditions, what are the options available to Ramesh as a project manager? What are the ethical dilemmas being faced by Ramesh? What are the professional challenges likely to be faced by Ramesh and his response to overcome such challenges?

While reviewing the approved design plans in preparation for execution, Ramesh identifies a serious flow. The proposed alignment includes a sharp 90-degree turn, incorporated due to spatial constraints between an electrical railway line on one side and ongoing metro construction on the other. From a standpoint, Ramesh believes the design is unsafe. It increases the risk of vehicular accidents, especially for heavy vehicles, and may lead to long-term inconvenience for road users. Nonetheless, the Chief Engineer overrules the Ramesh's concern. He states that the General Arrangement Drawing GAD has already been approved by the Railway Department, in coordination with Indian Railways. He points out that revisiting the design at this stage shall result in project delays, increased expenditure, and unwanted political alienation. Subsequently, Ramesh comes to know that the contractor awarded the tender to execute the project is a close relative of the PWD Minister. He also receives unofficial communication suggesting that his promotion is additional Chief Engineer, under active consideration, but could be jeopardized if he creates "unnecessary hurdles" in the project's timely completion. The incumbent state government is eager to complete the overbridge before the elections and present it as a major developmental achievement. This adds to the pressure on Ramesh to expedite project execution without raising further objections. Nonetheless, he remains convinced that the current design is flawed and could have grave implications for public safety if live unaddressed. Meanwhile, the bridge design has also attracted widespread public attention after being published in a leading local newspaper. Images of the sharp 90-degree turn went viral on social media, drawing criticism and ridicule. Several engineering experts have publicly flagged the alignment as a potential safety hazard, reinforcing Ramesh's concerns.

— SAKSHEE MISHRA · AIR 214