By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 11: The Centre has released part payment for ongoing water resource projects in Meghalaya, prompting the state government to clear contractors’ pending dues without delay.
Water Resources Minister Metbah Lyngdoh said on Thursday that the department had recently received about Rs 51.7 crore from the Government of India as the central share, out of which roughly 10 per cent—amounting to a little over Rs 5 crore—pertained to his department.
He clarified indirectly that this was only a part payment and not the final settlement for any project.
Lyngdoh said he had directed officials to expedite the immediate release of the funds to contractors, adding that the process had already begun on Thursday.
He indicated that the early utilisation of the current tranche would enable the state to secure the next instalment from the Centre.
Asked about the reasons behind the long delay, the minister explained indirectly that securing funds had been difficult for some time.
He said he took charge only after September and was not fully aware of the earlier discussions, but noted that the ministry had been unable to release funds earlier “for whatever reasons.” He added that the latest sanction showed the Centre was now keen to release more funds once utilisation was completed.
On avoiding such delays in the future, Lyngdoh said consistent follow-up with the Centre was crucial. He indicated that this approach had helped fast-track the present release and assured that the department would continue with sustained engagement to ensure the remaining funds—still pending with the Government of India—were obtained so that contractors did not suffer further.
