Chandigarh (Haryana) [India], August 7 (HBTV): Haryana Public Health Engineering and PWD Minister Ranbir Gangwa chaired a high-level review meeting with senior officials at the Chandigarh Secretariat, focusing on infrastructure development, project quality, and citizen-centric service delivery.

The minister made it clear that no compromise would be tolerated on the quality or durability of public works. ‘We want good work — there will be no compromise on strength or quality,’ he stated.

He reviewed the district-wise progress of projects under the AMRUT scheme and directed officials to ensure strict monitoring and timely execution. He added that delays or substandard work in urban infrastructure development would not be accepted.

Gangwa also instructed officials to accelerate the implementation of the Chief Minister's announcements, describing them as commitments made to the public. He stressed that any delays in these projects must be reported and addressed without fail.

Expressing concern over some contractors using inferior materials after quoting low rates, the minister warned that such practices would not be tolerated. He emphasised the need for regular quality checks, especially for construction materials like cement and iron rods. Junior Engineers were instructed to monitor sites closely and ensure materials are sampled and tested according to protocol.

In light of recent rainfall across the state, the minister also reviewed district-wise water drainage systems and directed departments to strengthen the infrastructure to prevent future waterlogging. He highlighted the need for better inter-departmental coordination to enable quicker water clearance and efficient infrastructure response. The assessment included districts such as Bhiwani, Loharu, Siwani, Adampur, Mahendragarh, and Dabwali.

Officials informed the minister that over 50 major infrastructure projects are currently underway across Haryana, with a combined cost exceeding INR 5,000 crore. Among these, 19 stormwater projects worth INR 297 crore are also in progress. Gangwa stressed the importance of completing all projects within stipulated timelines and under continuous monitoring.

It was revealed during the meeting that a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been developed for emergency responses in situations such as heavy rains, floods, and sewer blockages. Gangwa directed that this SOP be implemented immediately across all districts to ensure prompt and coordinated action. He also issued a strong warning against any violation of departmental protocols, stating that corruption would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Addressing the issue of sewerage and road construction, Gangwa criticised the practice of laying new roads only to have them dug up shortly after for sewer or pipeline installation. He directed that all underground infrastructure work be completed before road construction begins, urging close coordination with the Urban Local Bodies and PWD departments for improved planning and execution.

The minister also instructed officials to respond promptly to phone calls from elected public representatives, noting that such representatives often bring public grievances that require immediate attention. He emphasised that issues raised by sarpanches, municipal councillors, and other local leaders must be addressed promptly, as they serve as the first point of contact for citizens.

The meeting also reviewed the status of machines used for sanitation and cleaning. Gangwa directed that all machines should function at optimal capacity, and any underperforming or damaged equipment must be repaired or replaced without delay. He also instructed that machines be prioritised for areas most in need.

Concluding the meeting, Minister Gangwa stated that the Public Health Department is directly linked to the daily lives of citizens, which increases its responsibility. He reiterated that the objective of the Haryana government is not merely to make plans but to ensure their effective implementation on the ground, with every official working with dedication and accountability.

Additional Chief Secretary Mohammad Shayin, Chief Engineer Devendra Dahima, Asim Khanna, and other senior officials attended the meeting, along with engineers and staff who joined via video conferencing from across the state.

(ANI)