PMO urged to probe PMGSY irregularities
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, April 28 2025: All Manipur Contractors' Association Forum has submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister, urging for immediate intervention in what they alleged widespread irregularities in the execution of PMGSY-III works under the Rural Engineering Department (RED) and Manipur Rural Roads Development Agency (MSRRDA).

The contractors claimed that delays and financial mismanagement are severely hindering progress on key infrastructure projects under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).

According to the memorandum, while earlier phases of PMGSY had minor issues, the current phase (PMGSY-III) is facing significant challenges, including delayed payments to contractors, non-settlement of GST refunds and unauthorised changes to project guidelines.

The forum argued that these issues have stalled works scheduled to begin months ago.

A central issue raised in the memorandum was the appointment of a retired chief engineer as the head of RED/MSRRDA.

"This appointment violates government regulations prohibiting the engagement of retired officials in such positions," the forum pointed out, alleging that the retired official had previously made controversial changes to the Standard Bidding Document (SBD) guidelines which led to the cancellation of tenders for PMGSY-III works.

The forum further expressed concern over the exclusion of local contractors from the tendering process, claiming that recent changes to the bidding conditions have unfairly favoured outside contractors.

They lamented that despite submitting applications and complaints, their concerns have not been addressed.

Seeking immediate intervention from the Prime Minister's Office to launch an inquiry into these irregularities and ensure proper implementation of the PMGSY-III works, the forum requested that the engagement of the retired chief engineer be revoked to prevent further delays and mismanagement.

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