Hemant Soren Warns Officials Against Project Delays, Says No Compromise on Quality

Ranchi: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Wednesday issued a stern warning to officials of the Road Construction Department, directing them to ensure timely completion of infrastructure projects and maintain the highest quality standards. He made it clear that delays in execution would invite strict departmental action against the officials concerned.

Chairing a high-level review meeting at the Jharkhand Ministry, the Chief Minister reviewed the department’s performance over the past five years, including ongoing and completed projects related to roads, flyovers, overbridges and bridges. Officials presented detailed reports on the status and progress of various schemes.

Expressing dissatisfaction over delays and lapses in implementation, Soren instructed officials to prepare project plans in a time-bound manner and ensure their completion within the stipulated deadlines. He emphasized that unnecessary delays would not be tolerated and warned that officers responsible for slow progress would face disciplinary action. He also reiterated that there would be no compromise on construction quality under any circumstances.

The Chief Minister directed the department to prepare a comprehensive and updated database of all projects and make geo-tagging mandatory. He said every project should have clearly documented details regarding cost, progress, timelines and current status to enable effective monitoring. According to him, geo-tagging would enhance transparency, strengthen supervision and improve accountability. Officials were also asked to identify problems promptly and ensure swift resolution of public complaints.

Referring to reports received through social media and the print and electronic media about damaged roads, potholes, waterlogging and irregularities in construction works, Soren instructed officials to take immediate corrective measures. He stressed that road repairs, proper drainage and maintenance should receive special attention during the monsoon season to prevent accidents. He also called for widening and strengthening narrow roads to improve traffic safety.

The Chief Minister expressed concern over several road, flyover and bridge projects that have remained pending for years, causing inconvenience to the public. He directed officials to expedite all ongoing works, particularly major projects in Ranchi and other parts of the state, and complete priority projects within the next two months. Failure to meet the deadline, he warned, would result in strict action against the officials and executing agencies responsible.

Soren also reviewed the progress of the Solar Cycle Track and other infrastructure initiatives, directing officials to ensure durability, quality and timely execution. He emphasized strengthening bridge approaches, improving drainage systems and adhering to prescribed engineering standards in all construction works.

Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Road Construction Department Secretary Sunil Kumar, Engineer-in-Chief Praveen Jayant Bhengra and other senior officials attended the meeting.