Ajay Sharma
Sunderbani, October 25 :Most of the developmental works of Rural Development Department (RDD) in block Sunderbani are facing uncertainty, special courtesy, powerful contractors lobby and ‘oblivious’ authorities.
According to sources, there is a systematic delay in the implementation of development projects, especially under CAPEX budget.
“A systemic delay is plaguing rural infrastructure projects, with many powerful contractors are deliberately stalling developmental works by not commencing work, causing serious risks for the lapse of funds,” said sources, adding that contractors who secure tenders but fail to commence work, potentially leading to the lapse of precious government funds by December this year.
Sources said that the issue is centered on the Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) budget under the Rural Development Department (RDD), which underscores on-going challenges in fund utilization and accountability.
“The contractors take the work, but they don’t get it done within stipulated time,” said highly placed sources, adding that against the set guidelines for contractors to start the work within seven days, here in block Sunderbani no work commences even after 20-30 days of the opening of the tenders.
They said that these CAPEX initiatives are aimed at grassroots development across panchayats, but due to arbitrary approach of contractors and indifferent authorities, the general public is facing loss.
“The loss is of the public, because when this money after December will be lapsed—who will be responsible? Contractors or the concerned department?” questioned the sources, adding that government guidelines, as reiterated by RDD officers, mandate that contractors begin work within seven days of being declared the lowest bidder (L1).
Yet, in this block, most awardees have flouted the rule, with preliminary site preparations like land marking overlooked entirely.
They said that BDO Sundarbani should be careful. Such contractors should be warned and if necessary be put on the blacklist.
Meanwhile, locals have requested Deputy Commissioner Rajouri to intervene and take action against the erring contractors, who are intentionally harming public money.
When tried to contact BDO Sunderbani, he was not available for comments.
