PAC criticises PWD for Sion-Panvel highway work.

A Public Account Committee (PAC) has criticised the Public Works Department (PWD) for shoddy construction of Sion-Panvel highway.

“Objections have been raised constantly over the quality, maintenance and durability of this road. Contractors neglected these issues after completing the construction and the government has no control over these contractors,” the PAC report said.

The report, submitted in the State legislature on Wednesday, has also drawn the government’s attention to the potholes on the Sion-Panvel highway. “Every monsoon witnesses huge potholes on this road. Contractors do charge toll, but refrain from maintenance of the road, and the sufferer is a common commuter,” it said.

The report has recommended an audit of such constructions before the contractor hands them over to the government. “It is necessary to undertake third party audit from IIT or other official institutes of these projects,” said the PAC.

Other recommendations made by the PAC include setting up of an independent website to allow people to submit online complaints about the highway. “These complaints should be taken congisance of, and contractors must be made to work on it,” the committee said.

The project is at present being investigated by the Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) for alleged faulty work procedure adopted in issuing tenders. The PAC has also asked for a report within three months, explaining action taken and the status of inquiry.

THE HINDU