Roads hotmixing works yet to pick up despite govt assurance

MAPUSA

Road hotmixing works across the State continue to remain sluggish despite assurances from the Public Works Department (PWD), with just about a month left before the onset of the monsoon.

PWD Principal Chief Engineer Sandip Chodnekar said that the file seeking compensation for contractors over the recent hike in bitumen prices has already been moved to the finance department.

He added that, based on assurances from the Chief Minister, contractors have agreed to resume work.

“We have already moved the file to the finance. On the assurance of the Chief Minister, the contractors have agreed to begin road works,” Chodnekar said, expressing confidence that the issue has been resolved following a meeting between the government and contractors.

The PCE also maintained that existing contract provisions already safeguard contractors, stating that clauses in the agreements provide for compensation in the event of any price variation.

However, sources within the department indicate that work has yet to pick up on the ground. Contractors remain hesitant to restart hotmixing operations, insisting on a formal written order from the government before proceeding.

“Hotmixing works across the State have still not started in full flow. Contractors are waiting for something in black and white, as they do not want to take any risk,” a senior PWD official said.

The delay comes at a critical time, with the monsoon expected to set in by the first week of June, leaving a narrow window to complete pending road works. Even projects for which work orders have already been issued remain stalled, leading to growing concern among legislators.

The situation has also revived memories of last year’s monsoon, when the government faced widespread criticism over the poor condition of roads across the State.