KNF demands local contractors in PMGSY schemes

From Our Correspondent

KANGPOKPI | Nov 23

Kuki National Front today issued a reminder to the PMGSY contractors over the alleged failure of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) schemes in the hills.

Director, project and planning KNF, Andrew K, in their press communiqué reiterated that owing to the execution of work below scheduled rate, PMGSY has failed to serve its purpose to the hill people who reside in the far-flung remote areas.

That in spite of enormous sanctions made by the government under PMGSY scheme to construct roads in remote areas, owing to poor quality of work, many of the roads built under the scheme are not motorable.

He also pointed out that many of the same roads are blocked due to landslides, but the incumbent contractors have failed to take the responsibility of maintaining these roads after having withdrawn their bills.

He further alleged that apart from the various tremendous hardships faced by the people, many developmental schemes and projects have also been halted owing to the deplorable road conditions in the hills.

Considering all these facts, the department of project and planning, KNF, issued an order in respect of PMGSY Phase XI (Batch 2017-18) within Kangpokpi district that only local contractors shall be given priority to take up the construction works.

Beside quality work, this is being done with the intent to ensure that the maintenance of the constructed roads become the responsibility of local contractors for at least 1-2 years, he added.

He also stated that all these roads should be accessible even during rainy seasons.

In light of all the above-stated actualities, the outfit is compelled to intervene in the interest of the general public and the helpless villagers who are denied even the basic mode of transport, till today, he concluded.