In a significant move to address public inconvenience, authorities in Jalandhar have imposed a substantial penalty of Rs 7.5 crore on the executing agency, M/s Larsen & Toubro Limited, for delays in the crucial Surface Water Project. This decision comes after widespread complaints about dug-up roads across the city, which have disrupted daily life and smooth transportation for residents.
Strict Action Ordered by Deputy Commissioner
The penalty was levied following explicit directions from Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal, who emphasized the need for strict accountability. The Punjab Water Supply and Sewerage Board officially informed about this financial penalty during a review meeting held on Saturday, highlighting the administration's commitment to timely project completion.
Project Delays Affecting Daily Life
Presiding over a comprehensive meeting to review ongoing development projects in the district, DC Aggarwal pointed out that the prolonged delays in the Surface Water Project have significantly impacted residents' daily routines and transportation networks. He made it unequivocally clear that any further undue delays would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The deputy commissioner issued a stern warning that if the specified project timeline is not adhered to strictly, more stringent actions would be initiated against the executing agency. With the project expected to be completed within this calendar year, Aggarwal instructed Jalandhar Smart City Mission officials to maintain close monitoring of both the timeline and quality of work.
Accelerated Work Schedule Demanded
Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, the DC directed that work should commence in full swing immediately once the bitumen plant becomes operational by the end of February. This directive aims to minimize further disruptions and ensure rapid progress on the critical infrastructure project.
Review of Other Major Projects
During the same meeting, Deputy Commissioner Aggarwal also reviewed progress on several other significant infrastructure initiatives in Jalandhar district:
- Baralton Park Sports Hub Project: This Rs 70 crore development project has been targeted for completion by August 15, with officials instructed to ensure strict adherence to this deadline.
- 100-bed Critical Care Block: The construction of this essential healthcare facility at Civil Hospital in Jalandhar was also reviewed, with most infrastructure projects expected to reach completion by 2026.
The comprehensive review meeting underscored the administration's focus on timely execution of development projects while maintaining quality standards. The substantial penalty imposed on Larsen & Toubro serves as a strong message to all executing agencies about the consequences of project delays that affect public convenience and urban infrastructure development.
