Minister for Public Works G. Sudhakaran has said the Public Works Department (PWD) is beset by lack of professionalism, and that it is the reason for the delay in the completion of projects.
Speaking after inaugurating the 620-metre Kannenghat-Willingdon Island bridge near here on Friday, Mr. Sudhakaran called for administrative reforms to overcome the challenge.
“While the government has adopted a humanitarian approach towards officials, stern action will be taken against those who do not perform,” he said.
He added that there would not be a single potholed road in the city after September 30. Roads in the city will be given top priority and repaired on a war footing, considering the FIFA Under 17 World Cup matches to be hosted by the city next month.
The Minister said a direction had been issued to the PWD to complete repair of city roads at the earliest. In view of the emergency, the department has been allowed to make minor relaxations in the usual tender formalities.
Money will not be an issue for maintenance works. The government has already allotted ₹6 crore for road repair works in three constituencies in the district with an assurance to make further allocation if necessary. In the last 16 months, ₹52 crore has been set apart for road maintenance in the district.
Mr. Sudhakaran had words of praise for PWD officials for completing the construction of gallery at Maharaja’s College Ground before the global event next month and said they would be awarded.
While the Minister accused the Railways of being apathetic towards the State’s demands, he was full of appreciation for the Centre for making available the services of the Army immediately on request for the construction of a temporary bailey bridge at Enath along MC Road.
Mr. Sudhakaran cautioned the media against jumping at conclusions and asked them to report factually. He also called for exploring the scope of flyovers and skycities over the existing roads to overcome traffic issues.
M. Swaraj, MLA, presided over the meeting.
