Charge sheet, blacklisting for underperforming officers, contractors: PWD Minister

Himachal Pradesh Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh on Monday warned that strict action, including charge sheets and blacklisting, would be taken against underperforming officers and contractors to ensure greater accountability.

Speaking to the media, the Congress leader said that PWD divisions have been classified into four performance zones—red, yellow, green, and non-performing—based on which progress will be monitored.

Addressing key challenges such as delays in forest clearances and non-registration of land in the department’s name, he said a joint meeting, chaired by the Chief Minister, is being planned with the Panchayati Raj and Rural Development departments.

Land identification and acquisition will be expedited with the involvement of local representatives and district administration, he added.

The minister also urged local communities and panchayats to support road construction efforts. He noted that if timely land availability and local cooperation are not ensured, the road construction target may have to be curtailed to 400–500 km.

“Himachal Pradesh is leading the nation in uploading detailed project reports (DPRs) under Phase-IV of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) and is poised to achieve the ambitious target of constructing 1,500 km of roads,” he said.

The Congress leader said under the Urban Development Department, projects worth Rs 1,200 crore have been proposed through the Urban Challenge Fund.