Secretary, Public Works (R&B) department, Bhupinder Kumar today held an extensive tour of Sudh Mahadev and Mantalai areas of Udhampur district, during which he undertook comprehensive inspection of various developmental projects and mega initiatives underway in the PWD sector across the district.
Deputy Commissioner Udhampur, Saloni Rai; Chief Engineer PMGSY, Rajan Mengi; Chief Engineer R&B Chenab Valley, Mohit Mahajan; Director Planning , PWD, Sheikh Shavaiz; SDM Chenani, Gurdev Kumar; SEs, Executive Engineers from various divisions of the department as well as officers from NHIDCL accompanied the Secretary.
During the tour, the Secretary inspected progress of two under-construction bridges on Chenani Sudhmahadev section of NH-244. On the occasion, DGM NHIDCL briefed the Secretary on the progress of the ongoing project and informed that 80% progress on the 17 km road stretch has been achieved. He also informed that bridge at Chenani will be completed in February and second major bridge in April 2024, which will bring great relief for the commuters.
The Secretary emphasized on the officers of NHIDCL to pursue the court cases religiously which have halted the progress at three locations on the road stretch. The Secretary also directed NHIDCL to expedite balance works on this prestigious road project and strictly adhere to the committed timelines.Stressing on the importance of close monitoring and frequent reviews, he advised DC Udhampur to regularly review the progress of the project.
The Secretary also visited PMGSY roads and expressed satisfaction about the progress made. He also emphasized on maintenance of the roads during Defect Liability Period of the completed works. Chief Engineer PMGSY was also directed to take strict action against the contractors who fail to maintain their roads up to required quality specifications. PMGSY and R&B agencies were also directed to accelerate the pace of work on PWD projects in the area while maintaining quality standards.