SHILLONG, DEC 4: The All Meghalaya Contractors & Suppliers Association (AMCSA) has raised serious concerns over the challenges faced by contractors across the state, citing delayed payments, unclear procedures and slow implementation of government schemes.

In a meeting held recently, AMCSA president Precious Sumer and secretary Emmanuel Syiem said many key government projects—including construction of school and office buildings, police infrastructure and other public works—remain unfinished due to poor fund flow from the government, particularly delays within the Finance Department. Contractors who have invested substantial personal funds to continue ongoing projects are now facing severe financial strain, they added.

The Association alleged that scrutiny and sanction procedures in the Finance Division take excessively long, with several bills already passed by various departments remaining pending without any official clarification.

They also highlighted concerns regarding Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) such as PMGSY and projects under PWD and PHE, which have been stalled because instalments of funds have not been released on time, severely affecting progress and performance.

The AMCSA placed the following four demands before the state government:

Immediate release of all pending bills for contractors.

Reform and streamline the functioning of the Finance Department to ensure timely scrutiny and fund clearance.

Ensure transparency by publicly disclosing details of pending schemes and reasons for delays.

Strengthen contractor-friendly policies to support infrastructure development across Meghalaya.

The Association urged the government to acknowledge the crucial role contractors play in development works and to avoid unnecessary delays that hinder progress.

They expressed hope that the government will respond swiftly and positively to prevent further setbacks in the state’s development projects.