Jammu, Feb 28: Reiterating a zero-tolerance policy against quality lapses, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary warned of strict action against substandard materials or poor execution in Public Works Department (PWD) projects across Jammu and Kashmir.

Chairing a high-level review at the PWD Guest House, Jammu, he assessed zone-wise performance, emphasizing adherence to quality benchmarks, timely completion, and accountability at every level. “There is no room for quality compromise. Accountability must be visible at every level,” he asserted, directing close supervision of ongoing and upcoming projects.
The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to seamless road connectivity through projects under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF), NABARD RIDF, R&B, and urban initiatives. He cautioned that delays, administrative lapses, abnormally low bids, or subletting of contracts would attract strict action, including blacklisting of contractors and accountability of responsible officers.
Officers were instructed to ensure 100% utilization of allocated funds by March-end, maintain proper movement registers, conduct regular site inspections, and use geo-tagging for attendance in remote areas. Specific projects prioritized included Seerbagh–Chadoora Bridge, Ramban Bridge, Inderpati–Paragwal Bridge, and Dak Bungalow-cum-Conference Halls in Hyderpora and Rajouri. Commissioners were also asked to submit proposals for beautification works in Jammu and Srinagar, ensuring timely completion before the Darbar Move.
The meeting saw participation from Commissioners of SMC/JMC, Chief Engineers of PMGSY Jammu/Kashmir, R&B zones, Design Inspection and Quality Control (DIQC), Mechanical & Hospital Engineering Department (MHED), and Superintending and Executive Engineers from all Circles and Divisions.
During FY 2025–26, the Road Sector achieved 62% expenditure under CRIF projects and 45% under NABARD RIDF works, with South Kashmir recording 64%, Chenab 57%, Central Kashmir 56%, and Jammu 55% utilization. PMGSY Phase-I has connected 99.7% of targeted habitations with 18,009 km of roads, while PMGSY-IV targets 2,513 additional habitations. Additionally, 697 permanent restoration works have been approved, reinforcing the government’s focus on durable and high-quality infrastructure across the Union Territory.