Hyderabad: The Telangana govt on Tuesday constituted a high-level committee to undertake a review of the framework governing execution of govt engineering works across departments. The move is aimed at tightening financial discipline and curbing delays in infrastructure projects.The decision comes amid growing concerns over frequent requests for revised administrative sanctions, extensions of time and provisional payments in major public works, which have led to cost overruns, project delays and mounting financial liabilities for the state. According to the government, these issues stem largely from deficiencies in project planning, surveys, design finalisation, land acquisition, statutory clearances, procurement practices and contract management.As per GO 93 issued by the finance department, the panel will be headed by Vikas Raj, special chief secretary, transport, R&B department, with Sikta Patnaik, special secretary, finance department, serving as member-convenor.Senior engineering officials from irrigation, roads and buildings, panchayat raj, rural water supply and public health departments, along with representatives from the law department and technical experts, have been included in the committee.The committee has been tasked with examining the entire lifecycle of public works projects, from project conception and appraisal to procurement, contract management and financial oversight. It will review existing procedures governing detailed project reports (DPRs), administrative sanctions, land acquisition, statutory clearances and tendering processes.Among its key mandates is the formulation of a mandatory “project readiness gateway” requiring projects to secure finalised designs, land possession, statutory approvals and assured funding before being tendered. The panel will also recommend model bid and contract documents for uniform adoption across engineering departments.The committee will further examine the framework for revised administrative sanctions, extension of time provisions, provisional payments, dispute resolution mechanisms and contractor accountability. It has also been asked to explore legislative reforms, including the possibility of a comprehensive state law governing public works execution and financial administration.The government has directed the panel to submit its report and recommendations within one month of its constitution. The committee has also been empowered to engage subject experts and form sub-committees for specific inputs.Officials said the exercise is expected to streamline project planning and execution, improve transparency and accountability, and ensure timely completion of public infrastructure projects while reducing financial stress on the state exchequer.
