QR codes with complete technical details and regular progress updates to be put up at project sites: CM
Chief Minister chairs meeting of Quality Assurance Authority (QAA)
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh –
Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini said there must be absolutely no compromise on the quality of material used in infrastructure projects, and warned that strict action would be taken against any contractor or official found guilty of lapses in the quality of works.
The Chief Minister was chairing a meeting of the Quality Assurance Authority (QAA), Haryana here today. During the meeting, the Chief Minister emphasized that the QAA should be empowered to take necessary action wherever negligence or deficiencies are detected in project construction. He also took information on PWD labs situated in the state that test the quality of works.
It was decided that for Greenfield Road Projects, Bridges/Flyovers/ROBs/ buildings, and road upgradation projects, the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) shall be prepared by QAA-empanelled professional consultants to ensure high standards of planning and execution. These projects will also be supported by Third Party Inspection and Monitoring Agencies (TPIMA).
In another major decision aimed at enhancing transparency and enabling quick social audits, QR codes will be displayed at every project site. These QR codes will include the DPR summary, Bill of Quantities, technical specifications, name of contractor, engineer-in-charge, and consultant, along with regular updates on both physical and financial progress.
Further, it was decided that for smaller projects, all departments shall prepare standard guidelines in consultation with the QAA along with other concerned departments and the Chief Architect, and obtain final approval from the government.
Saini also directed the QAA to conduct stringent checks on the functioning of Third Party Agencies to ensure their accountability. He further stated that drainage planning must be an integral component of DPR preparation, supported by proper levels and disposal points. Departments were instructed to develop standard design templates for both urban and rural drainage systems.
The Chief Minister added that before the release of payment for any project, a mechanism shall be framed to ensure that its quality meets the prescribed standards, particularly in the case of high-rise buildings and bridges. It was also decided that departments will prepare a dynamic database of all the bridges and high-rise buildings in order to prepare a programme for structural audit of these in a phased manner.
To strengthen technical audits, it was decided that staff from existing Quality Control Wings of all State Departments, Boards, and Corporations shall be attached to the Quality Assurance Authority, Haryana.
QAA transforming state infrastructure
Chairman, QAA, Rajeev Arora (Retd. IAS) informed that the Authority has trained around more than 300 officers, with fortnightly webinars continuing regularly. He stated that the QAA is transforming state infrastructure through rigorous technical audits and forward-looking reforms, ensuring that projects above Rs 100 crore adhere to world-class standards. In two phases, QAA has audited 25 major engineering projects, issuing comprehensive reports to all government departments and the Chief Minister’s Office, with Action Taken Reports expected by January 2026.