Patna: Urban development and housing minister Nitish Mishra has directed officials to ensure timely completion of urban infrastructure projects while maintaining quality, stressing that construction alone should not be treated as the measure of success.Mishra issued the directions during a review meeting of various projects being implemented by Buidco at its office on Tuesday. Department’s principal secretary Vinay Kumar was also present on this occasion.Buidco managing director Animesh Kumar Parashar presented a detailed update on projects, including storm water drainage systems, Mukhyamantri Samagra Shahri Vikas Yojana (MMSY), Namami Gange and water supply schemes.The minister asked officials to prepare district-wise and project-wise work plans for delayed projects and ensure that executing agencies submit clear timelines for completion. Buidco teams were directed to regularly monitor progress against these plans.He also reviewed projects under MMSY and directed regular reviews at the GM/CGM level to expedite pending works. “Projects currently in Buidco’s pipeline should be targeted for completion within the current financial year, while tendering, work allocation and other procedural steps must be completed without unnecessary delays,” Mishra said.The minister stressed that quality finishing and timely completion must be given equal priority. He also directed officials to ensure construction protocols, including green nets and barricading at all project sites, and constitute dedicated monitoring teams for the purpose.The minister called for greater use of technology in project management, including effective implementation of online monitoring and e-office systems. He directed officials to integrate updated MIS and portal data, AI-based dashboards, engineering reports, file tracking and contractor databases to facilitate real-time monitoring and faster decision-making.He further said contractors delivering quality work within deadlines should be encouraged and rewarded, while those repeatedly underperforming or showing negligence should face action, including debarment as per rules.Mishra also directed Buidco to promote training, exposure learning and site visits for engineers and technical personnel so they can study modern construction practices being adopted in other parts of the country and apply suitable technologies in Bihar.He asked officials to give special attention to projects linked to tourist destinations and constitute inspection teams wherever required to assess quality and progress. He also asked officials to take steps to strengthen Buidco’s district offices.The minister also emphasised coordination with urban local bodies to resolve issues concerning municipal corporations and municipal councils quickly.
