Himachal's PWD Minister Calls for Blacklisting Contractors Delivering Subpar Work

Himachal Pradesh Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh has instructed officials to closely monitor contractors' performance and blacklist those delivering substandard work. He issued these directives during a review meeting with PWD officers in Shimla.

The minister emphasised the importance of maintaining quality in infrastructure projects. He suggested that contractors who meet high standards should be rewarded with more projects. This approach aims to encourage excellence in construction and development.

Progress and Budget Utilisation

Singh highlighted the department's significant progress in executing key projects. The current financial year has a budget of Rs 2240.27 crore, with Rs 526.42 crore already utilised. This funding supports various infrastructure developments across the state.

The department has constructed 18 bridges, 33 buildings, 190.44 kilometres of motorable roads, and 309.22 kilometres of cross drainage. Additionally, 674.30 kilometres of roads have been tarred, and 1060 kilometres have undergone periodic renewals.

Achievements Under PMGSY and NABARD Projects

During the meeting, Singh also highlighted achievements under PMGSY-II, where 100 percent of the work has been completed. PMGSY-I has reached a 99 percent completion rate. Furthermore, 337 projects under NABARD are currently underway, with the remaining 15 projects expected to be awarded soon.

Under the guidance of CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the department is upgrading its WAMIS software. This upgrade will enhance transparency in project execution by streamlining the tendering process and ensuring timely completion of works.

Response to Infrastructure Challenges

The minister commended PWD officials and workers for their tireless efforts in responding to infrastructure challenges posed by heavy rainfall. He directed the department to prioritise urgent repairs and maintenance of damaged roads and bridges to prevent public inconvenience.

Singh stated that these steps reflect the government's focus on efficiency and accountability in governance. "It will streamline the tendering process and guarantee the timely completion of works," he said.

The minister's directives aim to ensure that infrastructure development in Himachal Pradesh meets high-quality standards while addressing urgent repair needs promptly.