CM expresses concern over delay in projects

Kamal reviews Quetta Development Package; slams  increase in fees


​ Our Correspondent March 14, 2020
PHOTO: FILE

QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal on Thursday expressed concern over the delay in development projects under the Quetta Development Package – a scheme for the beautification of the provincial capital.

“I promise that no leniency and any negligence would be tolerated in the execution of projects,” he said while presiding over a meeting to review the Quetta Development Package. Planning and Development Additional Chief Secretary Abdul Rehman Buzdar, Finance Secretary Noorul Haq Baloch, and other officials were present on the occasion.

The uplift project – which is aimed at boosting the economic activities of the city – includes construction and widening of roads, improvement of the sewerage system, and beautification of the provincial metropolis.

Quetta Commissioner Usman Ali Khan, who is also the project director of the Quetta Development Package, briefed the meeting about the progress of the project.

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It was highlighted that the project was getting late because of “lack of coordination and uncalled for objections by the Procurement Committee members”. It was also stressed that such “mismanagement” would affect the final cost of the project.

To this, the chief minister urged all the committee members to review all concerns and make sure early completion of the tendering process.

Declaring consultancy and contingency expenses as “disproportionate”, CM Kamal said: “Just for the sake of own profit, the consultancy firms have increased their fees, while making unnecessary changes into the design [of the project]. Such acts also cause a delay in the project.”

No one would be allowed to harm public resources, he said, adding that timely completion of the Quetta Development Package would be ensured at any cost.

Terming the project critical for the people, the CM said the scheme would enhance the beauty of the city and open opportunities for its residents.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 14th, 2020.

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