Imphal: United Senior Citizen Forum 43-Phungyar Kendra has raised objections to awarding of a major highway project in Kamjong district at rates significantly below the sanctioned cost, demanding an immediate re-tender.
The project, titled “Widening and improvement of the Shangshak-Tengnoupal Road (Pck-3) from Km 78.250 to Km 126.250 of NH-102A into 2 Lane with hard shoulders,” is part of the Annual Plan 2024-25. The forum alleged that the tender process ignored repeated appeals to prioritize quality and sustainability of the work, which they said would directly impact the poorest and most vulnerable residents of Kamjong district.
Addressing a press conference, here on Wednesday, United Senior Citizen Forum secretary David Zimik said, “We had requested that the quality and sustainability of the project be prioritized during its execution. Unfortunately, it has been disregarded and the contract has been awarded at a rate 47 percent below the sanctioned cost. We strongly oppose this decision.”
According to the forum, Niraj Cement Structurals Ltd quoted Rs. 227 crores against the estimated cost of Rs. 429 crores, a difference of Rs. 202 crores. They alleged that such underquoting often results in substandard work, leaving local residents to suffer the consequences.
“The road is going to be a major road connecting for over 25 villages settling along the stretch, a good quality road would reduce the transportation issue especially in health condition and economy. Additionally, Kamjong district is a border district with Myanmar,” said Zimik.
“If this project is not re-tendered, the villages will be compelled to withhold land access for its implementation,” Zimik cautioned.
The memorandum has been addressed to the secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, with copies sent to the Union minister for Road Transport, the governor of Manipur, chief secretary, principal secretary (Works), and chief engineer, PWD, Manipur.
