Contractors fined Rs18 crore for poor repair work

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has slapped a fine of Rs18.6 crore and blacklisted on several contractors for shoddy repair work in civic schools. BMC’s vigilance department and department of the deputy city engineer found that work in at least 32 schools was not up to the mark.

In 2000, a student had lost his life when part of a BMC school building crashed on him. Following this incident, the Bombay high court directed the civic body to investigate the matter.

Dhanuka committee — which was constituted in 2002 — suggested giving a facelift to the civic schools and improving their infrastructure. It also suggested repairs of dilapidated civic school buildings.

The plan included buildings repairs, constructing classrooms, library and other facilities. Work began in 34 out of the 87 dilapidated schools, which were to be completely renovated at a cost of Rs49.5 crore.

However, during inspection of 36 schools, members of the standing committee claimed that the repairs were shoddy. They demanded that the consultants undertaking supervision of the work in civic schools should be blacklisted.

When contacted, Ashish Kumar Singh, additional municipal commissioner, said: “The BMC has initiated action against the contractors. They will have to pay a fine and will also be blacklisted. They will not be considered for any other BMC projects.”