Clearing the air on news reports on cancellation of ongoing projects in the State appearing in the media, the Public Works Department (PWD) has clarified on Wednesday that none of the project will be trashed on the basis of design. Higher officials of the department refuted the reports and at the same time also clarify that thorough inspection and scrutiny of running projects are going on. The Public Works Department is engaged to ensure that bridge projects are following technical parameters. The State Government has set up a comprehensive skill enhancement program, under which all the engineers of the State have been instructed to study the Indian Road Congress (IRC) codes and the guidelines of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and implement the works on their basis. Since the news of ‘90 degree’ railway overbridge surfaced and inquiry was set up, there were speculation and questions were hovering over future of newly-constructed and ongoing projects.

 

It is being reported and discussed in some social corridors that designs of the several ongoing projects have been cancelled. On Wednesday, exclusively talking to ‘The Hitavada’, PWD official denied that Bridge Cell of the department has cancelled general arrangement drawing of more than 355 projects. Ground work on 355 projects, including 140 flyovers, ROBs and elevated corridors have been stalled. It is not true, the PWD stated. ‘The Hitavada’ has also received a copy of such order that categorically mentioned that ongoing work on roads and bridges will continue and as per the standards.

 

None of the project will be cancelled on the basis of design and quality. Department’s constant supervision on such tasks have been ensured by the department, the order stated. Orders have been issued to concerned officials and efforts are being made for better co-ordination with other stakeholders e.g. local bodies and Railways. In an another other order, the PWD stated that a direction has been given regarding construction of ROBs and flyovers to the concerned authorities to establish better co-ordination with the PWD. Since there is involvement of available land, traffic situation and Geometric Design Standards, 3Superelevation, Transition Length and sharp curves so their counterparts e.g. railway and respective municipal corporation should also have discussion and execution with the technical team of the department before and after the construction in case there was need for correction.

 

Notably, newly-built Aishbagh railway over bridge in Bhopal drew severe criticism and ridicule, with experts are questioning its sharp 90-degree turn design. It has grabbed limelight and sever objection for the faulty design. Swiftly, the department swung into action to save image and opposition as well pointing out other projects. Chief Minister has to intervene and took cognizance of the matter and suspended seven engineers, including two chief engineers, of the Public Works Department a fortnight ago.