By Our Reporter
Shillong, Sep 12: Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma on Friday urged the state government to ensure complete transparency and accountability in the implementation of the new Secretariat-cum-Directorate building at the New Shillong Township and the Mini Secretariat Complex at Tura.
Moving a cut motion in the Assembly, he said the government should strictly follow the laid down norms, starting from the preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR) to the tendering process and execution of these major projects.
He recalled the incident of Assembly dome collapse that embarrassed Meghalaya, stating, “We already have a painful example before us. In these new projects, there must be no room for complacency.”
He reminded the House that the total project cost was estimated at over Rs 1,000 crore, warranting “stringent scrutiny at every level.”
Referring to the supplementary demands of Rs 200 crore for the new Secretariat and Rs 45 crore for the Mini Secretariat, Sangma said the scale of investment and speed of work required greater vigilance.
“We cannot afford another embarrassment like the Assembly building collapse,” he cautioned.
The Opposition leader raised several concerns, including the mode of implementation, selection of contractors, and adherence to Central Vigilance Commission guidelines.
He questioned whether the Notice Inviting Tender was framed clearly to prevent ambiguity and possible manipulation.
“In the past, loopholes in tender documents were deliberately inserted to create room for interpretation or litigation,” he said.
On the DPR, Sangma sought clarity on who prepared it and whether it was subjected to proper scrutiny. He said material specifications from flooring to wall paneling must be clearly defined to avoid dilution of quality.
“A tile can cost Rs 40 or even Rs 5,000 per square foot. Prices are determined by quality, and unless specifications are watertight, builders may compromise,” he argued.
He demanded details of how cost estimates were factored in, citing the outdated Schedule of Rates (SoR) as a recurring problem in government projects.
“Many departments have failed to update the SoR for years, leaving loopholes for misrepresentation of market values. Without proper market surveys, cost analysis becomes flawed,” Sangma said.
He questioned whether a Project Management Consultant had been engaged.
Replying to the motion, Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of Urban Affairs Sniawbhalang Dhar said the government was committed to improving the quality of life of citizens by focusing on infrastructure, social welfare, and employment generation. He informed the House that strict monitoring mechanisms, both internal and external, are in place to ensure accountability.
Dhar added that the rapid growth of Shillong necessitated the development of New Shillong Township to accommodate administrative, residential, and commercial expansion. He said 914 acres of land at Mawdiangdiang and Umsawli have already been earmarked for the project.