JJM panel flags outside contractors, says some did not visit project sites
Srinagar, Sep 22, KNT: The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly House Committee examining the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission has flagged serious shortcomings in the execution and supervision of water-supply schemes, stating that some contractors from outside Jammu and Kashmir allegedly did not visit project sites after securing contracts.
The committee said contracts in several cases were awarded to contractors from outside J&K without adequately verifying their ability to mobilize manpower, material and machinery in difficult terrain, particularly in Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi and Udhampur districts.
According to the committee report, some contractors allegedly did not visit the sites after securing the works, with execution being carried out largely through their agents or subordinate staff of the Jal Shakti Department.
The panel as per the news agency Kashmir News Trust said the arrangement raised concerns about supervision, quality control and accountability in the execution of schemes under the mission.
The committee recommended measures to strengthen contract management, ensure proper verification of contractors’ capacity before award of works and fix responsibility for deficiencies established during inspections.
The findings were based on examination of departmental records, complaints and representations, interactions with officials and field inspections of water-supply schemes. [KNT]
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