Bandipora, 19 Aug(KNS): The Contractors Association Bandipora has initiated an inspection drive of ongoing government projects across the district, with its president, Naseer Ahmad Mir, visiting multiple project sites where works are reportedly being executed at below estimated rates.

 

During the inspections, the association stated that several works were found to be substandard. In certain cases, the concerned departments have reportedly directed contractors to dismantle and re-execute portions of the work after deficiencies were identified.

 

President, Contractors Association Bandipora, Naseer Ahmad, alleged that contractors from outside the district are securing projects at significantly reduced rates and, in an effort to minimise costs, are compromising on construction materials and workmanship quality.

 

He further stated that several developmental works across Bandipora are progressing at a “snail’s pace” and expressed concern that the use of substandard materials in certain projects raises serious questions regarding the quality and durability of public infrastructure.

 

“Contractors from outside Bandipora are securing works at below estimated rates, and in many instances, the quality of execution is being compromised.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelThe concerned authorities must take serious cognisance of this issue,” Naseer Ahmad said.

 

He urged the administration to constitute a high-level technical committee to inspect all major ongoing government projects in Bandipora and ensure strict adherence to prescribed specifications, quality standards, and construction norms.

 

The association also maintained that public funds must not be expended on works that fail to meet required standards, and that contractors found compromising on quality should face appropriate action as per rules.

 

Meanwhile, the Executive Engineer, R&B Division Bandipora Shahid Saleem, stated that the department is closely monitoring all ongoing works.

 

He added that quality checks are being conducted regularly and made it clear that any contractor found using substandard material or violating prescribed specifications will be dealt with strictly in accordance with established norms.

 

The inspection drive has brought renewed attention to the quality, pace, and execution of government-funded developmental works in the district, with stakeholders calling for enhanced accountability and regular technical oversight.(KNS).