• Deputy CM reiterates zero tolerance for lapses, quality compromise

JAMMU: The government has terminated two major road construction contracts in Kathua, blacklisting the contractor for delays in work completion. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary said the contracts, awarded to M/s Puran Chand and Sons, Jammu, have been terminated due to the contractor's failure to meet the deadlines despite repeated notices and extended opportunities.

He said that the terminated projects included construction of road from Malhar to Marhoon (Package No. JK07-136, Phase X, Stage-I) and construction and maintenance of road from L031 Mahan to Banjar (Package No. JK07-219, Phase XII). Both the works had been allotted to M/s Puran Chand and Sons, Jammu. He said that besides imposition of penalty the contractor has been blacklisted and debarred from participating in future PMGSY works for a period of one year.

An official order from the Office of the Chief Engineer PMGSY states that the contractor failed to mobilize adequate machinery, manpower and resources, leading to prolonged delays. Despite multiple notices, review meetings and assurances, progress remained unsatisfactory, impacting connectivity and public convenience in the affected areas.

In both the cases, the contracts have been terminated under relevant clauses of the Standard Bidding Document (SBD). Liquidated damages and penalties amounting Rs. 146.63 lakh in one project and Rs. 217.54 lakh in the other have been imposed.

The concerned Executive Engineer has been directed to recover the penalty amount from the pending dues, security deposits, performance securities and bank guarantees.

The Deputy Chief Minister said that fresh tendering for the balance works has been ordered to ensure early completion.  He stated that timely and quality execution of developmental works is non-negotiable for the government. He emphasized that public infrastructure must be completed within stipulated deadlines and in accordance with the prescribed standards.

The Deputy Chief Minister further cautioned that the erring contractors may face strict action, including blacklisting, if they fail to complete projects within the defined timeframe. He reiterated the government’s commitment towards ensuring accountability, transparency and accelerated development across J&K.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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