Oppn quizzes Govt on poor road condition
SHILLONG: The Opposition on Friday questioned the State Government over the delay in releasing the pending bills running into several crores of rupees to the PWD contractors thereby affecting the improvement of roads in the State.
During the Question Hour, PWD Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar said that while the outstanding dues to be paid to the contractors in the state is over Rs 403 crore, the dues to be paid to the contractors under PMGSY scheme is Rs 60.10 crore.
Raising a question Jemino Mawthoh (UDP) said that the road infrastructure is affected due to the non-release of pending bills to the contractors who are now “reluctant to carry out further works”.
Citing the example of Nongthymmai constituency, Mawthoh said, “Though a lot of works are to be done, the contractors are hiding from the State Government.”
Mawthoh pointed out that if the contractors seek legal redress, it will put the State Government in a fix. Mawthoh also suggested that there should be cut in the funds of other departments to fill up the coffers of PWD.
In reply, the Minister only said that whenever funds are available, the government will clear the pending bills. The Minister said that due to paucity of funds, the government has stopped new sanctions and repair works. Implementation of Building laws in Nongstoin Urban Affairs Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh assured the State Assembly on Friday that the State Government will take people into confidence when the MUDA BuildingRules are implemented in Nongstoin. During the Question Hour, Diosstarness Jyndiang (HSPDP) wanted to know from the minister whether the Meghalaya Building Bye Laws will be implemented in Nongstoin.
In reply, the minister said that preparation of master plan is underway.
The minister informed that the government will sort out the differences regarding areas administered by Nongstoin Town Committee once the MUDA Bye Laws are made applicable.
To a question on whether a MUDA office will be set up in Nongstoin, the minister said that since the master plan is under preparation, the matter will be decided at a later stage.