Bihar Government Cancels ₹826 Crore Mahagathbandhan-Era Water Supply Contracts
The most cancelled contracts were in the Banka district; Jamui, Lakhisarai, Aurangabad, and Ara were next
In a bold move, the Bihar government of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has revoked 350 contracts worth ₹826 crore that were earlier granted under the Mahagathbandhan-Era regime. These agreements dealt with providing drinking water in rural regions.
The Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) conducted an investigation that turned up anomalies in the contractor selection procedure, which led to the decision to cancel. The contracts included the installation of hand pumps and small water delivery systems, among other components of rural water provision. According to PHED Minister Niraj Kumar Singh, these contracts were awarded without following the proper procedures.
The most cancelled contracts were in the Banka district; Jamui, Lakhisarai, Aurangabad, and Ara were next. The department has sent a preliminary inquiry report for additional investigation to the appropriate authority.
Preliminary Inquiry into Mahagathbandhan-Era Anomalies
Even though the precise nature of the anomalies is still unknown, the government’s dedication to accountability and openness is demonstrated by this action. The cancellation emphasizes how crucial it is for public enterprises to follow just and moral procedures. Currently, the remaining contracts are being examined.
Political reactions have been sparked by the decision. Mrityunjay Tiwary, the spokesperson for the RJD’s State unit, speculated that the NDA allies would be concerned about the effects of welfare programs carried out by the previous Mahagathbandhan government. It is stated that lakhs of individuals in the State profited from these programs.
The termination of water supply contracts in rural Bihar may have several effects on the impacted areas.
Current water supply projects could be immediately disrupted by the cancellation of existing contracts. Contractors who handled distribution network management, water source maintenance, and hand pump installation in the past may be no longer participating.
At ₹826 crores, the cancelled contracts have a substantial monetary value. The projects connected to these contracts may be delayed if they are void. The selection of new contractors and the resumption of administrative procedures are required. The timely delivery of clean water to remote populations may be impacted by this delay.
The cancellation of the contracts gives the Bihar administration a chance to reevaluate its top objectives.
The government’s dedication to accountability and transparency is valued by many citizens. They contend that to ensure high-quality projects and the effective use of public monies, contracts with irregularities must be terminated.
A few residents are waiting for more information since they are interested in the particular anomalies. The PHED Minister has declined to provide details, citing ongoing investigations, nevertheless.
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