Calls for action against underperforming contractors
Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, in a review meeting of the senior officers of the Public Works Department (PWD) here today stressed the importance of maintaining quality in infrastructure development while calling for strict action against underperforming contractors.
He highlighted the significant progress made by the department in executing key projects, backed by a budget of Rs. 2240.27 crore for the current financial year, with Rs. 526.42 crore already utilized. He said that the department has made notable progress in infrastructure development, constructing 18 bridges, 33 buildings, 190.44 kilometres of motorable roads, and 309.22 kilometres of cross drainage. In addition, 674.30 kilometres of roads have been tarred and 1060 kilometres have undergone periodic renewals.
Vikramaditya Singh also highlighted the significant achievements under PMGSY-II, where 100 percent of the work has been completed, while PMGSY-I has reached a 99 percent completion rate. Additionally, 337 projects under NABARD are currently underway, with the remaining 15 projects expected to be awarded soon.
Emphasizing the commitment to quality assurance, the Minister highlighted Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s visionary leadership in modernizing the Public Works Department. He explained that under the Chief Minister’s guidance, the department was actively working on upgrading its WAMIS software. He said that this step would revolutionize PWD operations and would ensure enhanced transparency in project execution. It would streamline the tendering process and guarantee the timely completion of works and would reflect the government’s focus on efficiency and accountability in governance.
Vikramaditya Singh issued strict directives to officials to monitor contractors’ performance. He urged them to take decisive action against non-performing contractors and blacklist those who deliver subpar work. At the same time, he recommended rewarding contractors whose work meets high-quality standards by awarding them more projects.
Addressing the recent monsoon damage, Vikramaditya Singh commended the PWD for their tireless efforts in responding to infrastructure challenges posed by heavy rainfall. He directed the department to prioritize the urgent repair and maintenance of damaged roads and bridges to prevent any inconvenience to the public. Ensuring timely pothole repairs and the swift restoration of flood-affected roads was highlighted as a key priority.
