Govt to take over work if deadline missed and recover payments from erring contractors
MAPUSA
The Public Works Department (PWD) has issued a stern ultimatum to road contractors, emphasising that if road repairs are not completed before the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi festival, the government will take over the work and recover the costs from the contractors’ payments.
The announcement by PWD Principal Chief Engineer Uttam Parsekar comes as the State grapples with deteriorating road conditions, exacerbated by continuous rains.
Speaking to The Goan, Parsekar revealed that several contractors had already initiated repair work following the issuance of show-cause notices by the PWD.
“After the notices were served, the contractors have begun the patchwork. Some work has been done, and once the hotmix plants are operational, they will proceed with more permanent repairs,” he said.
However, Parsekar was unequivocal in his stance that if the repairs are not completed promptly, the government will intervene.
“In case they fail to carry out the necessary repairs before Ganesh Chaturthi, we will appoint an agency to complete the work. The cost incurred will then be recovered from the contractors’ payments,” he warned.
This firm stance by the PWD is a direct response to widespread public dissatisfaction over the poor condition of roads, which has been further aggravated by unrelenting rainfall.
While acknowledging the challenges posed by the weather, Parsekar stressed that this could not be an excuse for delays, especially with the festive season approaching.
The PWD’s decision to issue show-cause notices has already prompted responses from some contractors.
“Some contractors have replied to the notices, but what is more important is that all have started work on patching up the potholes and repairing the bad roads,” Parsekar noted.
As Ganesh Chaturthi draws near, the focus will remain on ensuring that the roads are safe and accessible for the public.
The PWD’s proactive approach is expected to expedite the repair process, ensuring that the State’s infrastructure is ready to handle the increased traffic during the festival.
The PWD’s intervention highlights the importance of timely road maintenance and the government’s commitment to holding contractors accountable for their responsibilities.
