SHILLONG JAN; 24: Deficiencies in the execution of public infrastructure projects, particularly roads, bridges, and drainage systems, have led to inconvenience for residents in several parts of Meghalaya. Community institutions such as Dorbar Shnongs and village authorities, which play a key role in local administration, have expressed concern over the quality of works implemented through government departments.
Village headmen, who serve as the first point of contact for citizens, often face public criticism when infrastructure projects fail to meet expected standards. In such cases, residents experience disruption and damage, while accountability remains unclear.
The Public Works Department (PWD), which is responsible for awarding contracts, supervising construction, and ensuring adherence to technical specifications, undertakes projects through a tendering process. However, community representatives have observed that in some cases, project implementation appears to prioritise completion timelines over construction quality and long-term durability.
Concerns Over Materials and Monitoring
There have been concerns regarding the use of construction materials that may not fully comply with prescribed specifications. Community leaders have also pointed to instances where projects are reportedly subcontracted, raising questions about monitoring and quality control during execution.
As public funds are utilised for such projects, stakeholders have stressed the need for stronger oversight mechanisms, regular inspections, and clear responsibility for maintaining standards, particularly during the defect liability or warranty period.
It has also been noted by local bodies that some small-scale works carried out under MLA schemes have demonstrated comparatively better outcomes. These projects are perceived to benefit from closer community involvement and greater transparency during implementation.
Issues Reported in Lumshyiap Village
In Lumshyiap village, residents have reported difficulties following the deterioration of drainage structures and slab covers constructed recently. The project, funded with over ₹1.20 crore under the MLA Scheme 2022–2024 and completed in 2025 through the PWD, has required multiple repairs within a short period.
According to local residents, the condition of the infrastructure has raised concerns about construction quality and supervision. The Dorbar Shnong Lumshyiap has conveyed these issues to PWD officials and requested remedial measures to prevent further inconvenience, particularly during the movement of heavy vehicles.
Call for Review and Improvement
Community representatives have appealed to the State Government and the PWD to review existing monitoring mechanisms, strengthen quality assurance processes, and ensure accountability at all stages of project implementation.
They have emphasised that timely inspections, transparent audits, and effective enforcement of contractual obligations would help prevent recurrence of such issues and ensure that public infrastructure projects deliver lasting benefits to the people.
