MINUTES OF THE REGIONAL REVIEW MEETING HELD ON
14th & 15th January, 2016 at Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Participating States: Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh,
Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh
Joint Secretary (RC) & DG, NRRDA chaired a Regional Review Meeting of
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) for the States of Chhattisgarh, Gujarat,
Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh on 14th & 15th January,
2016 at Bhopal.
On the first day, State-wise progress and item-wise review through
presentation was carried out (presentation-1 & presentation-2). On the second day,
the specific inputs from STAs, SQMs, SQCs and NQMs were discussed in the presence
of States officials.
At the outset, Smt. Alka Upadhyay, Chief Executive Officer, Madhya Pradesh
Rural Roads Development Authority (MPRRDA), welcomed all the delegates of
Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), National Rural Roads Development Agency
(NRRDA) and officials of participating States to the Regional Review Meeting.
JS(RC) & DG, NRRDA in his opening remarks emphasized that due to the
resource crunch in the previous financial year i.e. 2014-15, Ministry could not release
adequate funds to the States. Inspite of this, a record 36,000 km of PMGSY road
length was constructed. This is a remarkable achievement. Providing the bigger
picture, he pointed out that the average length of PMGSY roads constructed per day
across the country varied from 65 to 67 Km per day in the period 2011-12 to 2013-14.
During the last year (2014-15), however, this saw a substantial increase to 100 km per
day. The average road length construction (in km) per day in 6 States of this region
during 2014-15 and 2015-16 as well as achievement percentage of annual targets
(2015-16, in terms of road length) is as follows:
State (s)
Average length of Road
constructed km/day
Annual Target
2015-16 Length (in km)
for 2015-16
2014-15
(Upto Dec.
15)
Achievement % of
Annual Targets
(Upto Dec.15)
Chhattisgarh
Gujarat
Maharashtra
Madhya Pradesh
Rajasthan
Uttar Pradesh
7.25
5.18
1.37
14.19
8.86
5.48
4.76
5.44
1.46
9.14
7.71
7.54
1950
2000
780
4433
2600
2500
67%
75%
52%
62%
82%
87%
JS (RC) briefed about new fund sharing pattern of PMGSY in the ratio of 60:40
between the Centre and States for all States except 8 North Eastern and 3 Hilly States
for which it will be 90:10. This modified sharing pattern is effective from Financial
year 2015-16. All the on-going as well as outstanding works would be covered under
this sharing pattern. States are required to make necessary Budgetary provision, in
the current financial year, for release of matching State share to the Nodal
Departments executing PMGSY works. The excess/ deficient release by the State,
matching with the Central share, can be adjusted by the State during the succeeding
Financial Year. A detailed advisory along with State-wise enhanced Central allocation
and required matching State share has already been issued to all the States on 12th
January, 2016 and also uploaded on “Circular” section of PMGSY website. He further
informed that the Ministry is also considering to financially incentivise the States who
achieve 100% targets allocated to them, within the prescribed time frame. This
incentive could also be used for periodic maintenance expenditure by the States.
Total Annual Allocation including matching share of State and release of funds to all
participating States during current year (Upto December, 2015) is as follows:Matching Share
Total
of the State
Annual
(40%)
Allocation
Total
Release to the
State
State (s)
Enhanced Annual
Allocation (60%)
Chhattisgarh
498
332
830
389
Gujarat
Maharashtra
431
503
287
335
718
838
333
358
Madhya Pradesh
1122
748
1870
864
Rajasthan
509
339
848
388
Uttar Pradesh
937
625
1562
726
JS (RC) informed that due to enhanced inflow of funds to the SRRDAs, it has
been decided to proportionately enhance the annual physical targets of the States, in
terms of length of roads to be constructed and number of habitations to be
connected. This will not only ensure better and more effective utilization of the funds
available but would also go a long way in achieving the stated objective of the
government to substantially achieve the PMGSY targets by March 2019. Revised and
enhanced physical targets under PMGSY in terms of Length and Habitations have
been already communicated to all the States on 12th January, 2016 as follows:-
State (s)
Length (in km)
Habitations
(in Nos.)
Chhattisgarh
1950
975
Gujarat
Maharashtra
2000
780
59
90
Madhya Pradesh
4433
1560
Rajasthan
2600
1053
Uttar Pradesh
2500
104
JS (RC) also briefed about fund credited and utilized by the participating States
during the last year and current year for maintenance of rural roads. During 2014-15
and 2015-16 (Upto December 15), an amount of Rs. 5.59 crore (100%) has been
utilized against the credited fund of Rs. 2.64 Cr. by Chhattisgarh. Gujarat has utilized
Rs. 11.41 Cr. (34%) against Rs. 33.12 Cr. fund released for SRRDA maintenance
account, which needs to be increased. Similarly, Maharashtra 74% of fund has been
utilized for maintenance works. Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan only 59% & 61% fund
has been utilized for maintenance works respectively. Uttar Pradesh 97% fund has
been utilized. During the current year (Upto Quarter ending Dec.15), the percentage
of expenditure w.r.t fund required is 15% in Chhattisgarh, 19% in Gujarat, 50% in
Maharashtra, 22% in Madhya Pradesh, 23% in Rajasthan and 73% in Uttar Pradesh.
Except Chhattisgarh, all participating States have released funds for maintenance of
rural roads. States should ensure that the roads constructed under the PMGSY are
maintained properly. Adequate funds for this purpose must be provided in the
budget of the State. States were requested to upload maintenance expenditure on
OMMAS regularly. It was pointed out that though the States are utilizing the
maintenance amount, the same should also be reflected in NQMs report as most of
the reports have graded the roads as ‘Unsatisfactory’ on maintenance aspect.
JS (RC) further underlined the importance of routine as well as periodic
maintenance and suggested that States should move towards having a dedicated
Rural Roads Maintenance Policy (RRMP) and a Maintenance Management System for
Rural Roads. This would ensure that the high investments made in creation of road
assets are protected over the entire design life of PMGSY roads. He requested States
of Gujarat and Maharashtra to quickly frame a Rural Road Maintenance Policy (RRMP)
and obtain the State Cabinet’s approval and also notify in the State Gazette. Once
RRMP is in place, SRRDA can use it as an enabling tool to obtain funds from States
finance department for regular maintenance of rural roads. Chief Engineer, PMGSY
Gujarat informed that RRMP already exists and is being modified and finalized. It was
decided in the meeting, on States request, to depute one expert to Maharashtra to
assist in preparation of RRMP.
(Action: Maharashtra & Gujarat)
JS (RC) & DG advised all the States to use non-conventional material, locally
available materials and Environment friendly new technologies on a large scale in the
construction of PMGSY roads and also road-wise details of PMGSY roads completed in
the State in the year 2015-16 using New Technologies like cold mix, waste plastic, soil
stabilization, cell filled concrete, Jute/Coir geo-textile etc must be updated and
uploaded on R&D module of OMMAS. JS (RC) informed that in the second week of
February, 2016, PMO will review the PMGSY scheme, in which use of nonconventional materials and new technologies, Citizen Centric, Monitoring and
achievement of targets are main agenda points. Hence States need to initiate priority
action on these points.
States were also informed that Ministry of Rural Development / NRRDA had
already issued targets for 2015-16 for use of Waste Plastic and Cold Mix for each
State. States may consider separately empanelling more experienced and well
equipped consultants for preparation of DPRs for such R&D works. As the IRC
specifications for most of these technologies are already available, States may enter
into MoU with STAs or any other recognized technical agency for performance
evaluation of such roads, at local level and the expenditure on this may be met from
administrative expenditure fund. The State and STAs may decide mutually the fees for
pavement performance evaluation at the time of entering into bilateral MoU.
Director (Technical) advised all the States to upload exact length of technology, cost,
photographs and also upload performance reports etc for such works on OMMAS.
Chief Engineer, Gujarat requested to reduce the targets set for State for using Waste
Plastic only to 100 km in place of 200 km similarly for Cold Mix technology 10 km in
place of 100 km. Engineer-in-Chief, MPRRDA also requested to organize training
programme for their engineers on R&D, which was agreed upon.
JS (RC) also explained about the features of the new digital CBR map which has
been recently created on OMMAS based on available CBR data and requested the
States to update the CBR data of all sanctioned road on OMMAS. A provision already
exists on OMMAS for uploading the data of CBR in “Proposal Module”. There are a
large numbers of roads where CBR values have not been entered. States were
requested to upload this data for atleast the projects sanctioned after 2006-07
through SRRDA login or PIU login. This would then be reflected in a digital CBR map
(available on the OMMAS), which would serve as a management tool for the States.
(Action: All States)
JS (RC) briefed about a new mobile application, “Meri Sadak”, integrated into
OMMAS, which has been recently launched by NRRDA for user friendly and
transparent citizen feedback and complaint redressal system under PMGSY.
Application has been developed by C-DAC and is available for download on “Google
Play Store” for free. Director (Projects-III) & Chief Quality Coordinator (CQC), NRRDA
shall be the Nodal Officer. At the State level, State Quality Coordinators (SQCs) will be
the Nodal Officer to handle feedback module and will dispose off the feedbacks
received under “Meri Sadak” of OMMAS portal. The detailed operating procedure,
including the time schedules in this regard, has already been shared with all States
and same is also available in the circular section of PMGSY website
(www.pmgsy.nic.in). The photographs of the roads can be taken and uploaded
through this Application. Where the work has been abandoned or where the work is
of bad quality, this can be reported through this Mobile Application, by citizens.
In case of grievances, the interim reply may be given to the Petitioner in 7 days.
But final reply to complainant should be given within 60 days. The numbers of
pending final replies are 90 in case of Rajasthan and 42 in Uttar Pradesh. In
Chhattisgarh (4 cases of Dec. 15), no interim reply has been given. States may ensure
disposal of feedback in time bound manner without compromising on quality aspects.
JS (RC) further briefed about new Mobile Application launched by Hon’ble
Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Drinking Water & Sanitation,
Government of India on the occasion of ‘Good Governance Day’ on 25th December,
2015. The main features of this application are Uploading of Laboratory Photographs
and Photographs of physical progress of on-going PMGSY road works on OMMAS.
States must ensure that laboratory is established by Contractor at the site once the
agreement for the work is executed. All the DPIU now should have the new ‘Progress
Monitoring Application” for PMGSY installed on their mobiles and will now be able to
upload the Geo-tagged laboratory photographs through the Mobile Application and
also upload photographs of the stage-wise physical progress of on-going works on
OMMAS. Maximum 20 photographs of different stages can be uploaded on OMMAS
through this application. The detailed instructions for using these Mobile Applications
have been already circulated to all the States and are also uploaded on PMGSY
website.
(Action: All States)
During the discussions, Dr. I.K. Pateriya, Director (Tech), NRRDA emphasized on
submission of compliance of the last review meeting held in December, 2014/
February, 2015 at Pune and New Delhi. Chief Engineer, Gujarat informed that out of
incomplete 6 road works, 4 road works would be completed by March 2016 and
remaining 2 road works are proposed for dropping. Chief Engineer, Maharashtra
informed that out of 42 incomplete road works, 31 are pertaining to Gadchiroli
district which is naxal affected area. Remaining 11 road works would be completed
by June 2016. Chief Engineer, Rajasthan informed that out of 154 incomplete road
works, 81 roads are proposed for de-sanctioning and remaining 73 roads to be
completed. Chief Engineer, CGRRDA informed that 254 road works are pending out of
285. States were asked to send the monthly completion plan for such incomplete
roads based on realistic assessment of field and other conditions. He also requested
all the States to fix the targets of PIUs, contractors for achieving the progress in terms
of no. of road works as well as length to be completed in a month and share the steps
taken and progress achieved in this regards, to Ministry/ NRRDA also. The PIUs must
review progress with contractors on a regular basis and SEs must also regularly review
progress with PIUs.
Regarding reconciliation of eligible unconnected habitations, Chief Engineer,
UPRRDA assured that by end of February, 2016 reconciliation of remaining 21 districts
would be updated and locked on OMMAS. Similarly, Engineer-in-Chief, MPRRDA
assured that all details of 44 districts have been uploaded and habitation details of
remaining 6 districts would be updated and locked on OMMAS in next 15 day’s time.
Chief Engineer, CGRRDA informed that status of 8 habitations to be changed to
dropping cases. Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan also agreed to reconcile and lock
habitation data by end of January, 2016.
(Action: All States)
States of Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh provided details of length for tree
plantation for 2014-15 & 2015-16 as follows:Year(s)
State (s)
Maharashtra
2014-15
Length (Nos.)
88 km (37,500)
2015-16
Length (Nos.)
135 km(21,000)
Uttar Pradesh
735 km (38,500)
735 km (38,500)
Chief Engineer, UPRRDA further informed that there are 12 Thermal Power
Plant in the State.
Director (Technical) briefed about physical completion of roads by the
participating States since inception to December, 2015. CGRRDA has constructed
25,736 Km length (87%) out of total sanction of 29,565 Km road length. This gap
needs to be reduced. During 2015-16 (Upto December 15), 1,310 Km of road length
has been constructed out of physical target of 1,950 Km by CGRRDA. Chief Engineer,
Chhattisgarh stated that some projects which could not be completed due to dispute/
court cases are to be closed and OMMAS to be updated. State needs to come out
with the plan to complete the length of remaining road works. Chief Engineer further
assured that the State will incur the expenditure of Rs. 900 Crore by end of March,
2016 (upto December, 15 expenditure made by the State is Rs. 464 Crore).
(Action: Chhattisgarh SRRDA)
In Gujarat 95% of the sanctioned length has been constructed and there is a
gap of 601 Km between sanction and completion. This year (Upto December,15),
approx. 1,497 Km of road length has been constructed out of targeted length of 2,000
km. State was requested to upload the details on relevant modules on OMMAS. State
informed that under PMGSY-II, out of 109 road works cleared, 80 road works have
been completed and remaining 29 road works are in progress at different stages.
Chief Engineer further assured that the State will incur the expenditure of Rs. 700
Crore by end of March, 2016 (upto December, 15 expenditure made by the State is
Rs. 362 Crore).
(Action: Gujarat SRRDA)
In Maharashtra, 23,350 Km of road length has been constructed out of total
sanctioned length of 27,054 Km. This year (Upto December,15), approx. 403 Km of
road length has been constructed out of targeted length of 780 km. State has
informed that out of total sanctioned road works, only 343 road works are yet to be
completed instead of 417. During the current year, an expenditure of Rs. 338 Crore
has been incurred, out of released amount of Rs. 358 Crore (94%).
(Action: Maharashtra SRRDA)
MPRRDA has constructed 62,617 km length (86%) out of total sanction of
67,869 Km road length. This gap needs to be reduced. During 2015-16 (Upto
December 15), 2,757 Km of road length has been constructed out of physical target of
4,433 Km by MPRRDA. On the issue of number of road works yet to be completed, it
has been pointed out that there are repetition of number of road works on OMMAS
(around 65 roads) in the total number of works yet to be completed i.e. 1,481. State
assured to resolve the issue with the help of C-DAC. Further, Engineer-in-Chief
informed that only 101 road works are incomplete out of 191 road works sanctioned
prior 2010-11. State also assured that out of 101 incomplete road works, 50 road
works will be completed by March, 2016 and remaining 61 road works will be
completed by June, 2016. Engineer-in-Chief further assured that the State will incur
the expenditure of Rs. 1800 Crore by end of March, 2016 (upto December, 15
expenditure made by the State is Rs. 1,199 Crore). State was requested to upload all
works (about 150) reported as complete on MPR, but not updated on OMMAS.
(Action: Madhya Pradesh SRRDA)
In Rajasthan 94% of sanctioned length has been completed and there is a gap of
4,032 Km between sanction and completion. This gap needs to be further reduced. It
is observed that 400 road works are shown as complete in Nov. 2015 MPR, but not
uploaded on OMMAS. State was requested to identify the districts where these road
works exist and upload their status on OMMAs quickly. This year (Upto
December,15), approx. 2,121 Km of road length has been constructed out of targeted
length of 2,600 km. State informed that out of 144 incomplete road works sanctioned
prior 2010-11, 8 works have been completed, 85 road works proposed for de-sanction
and remaining are in progress. Under World Bank RRP-I, 18 incomplete road works
sanctioned prior 2010-11 is a cause of concern. State was requested to complete
these road works at the earliest. Similarly, under RRP-II, only 553 road works are yet
to be completed out of 1,010 road works. State was also requested to submit Action
Plan with current stages for completion of these incomplete road works of RRP-I &
RRP-II. During the current year, an expenditure of Rs. 321 Crore has been incurred,
out of released amount of Rs. 388 Crore (83%).
(Action: Rajasthan SRRDA)
UPRRDA has constructed 45,058 km length (85%) out of total sanction of
52,605 Km road length. Nearly, 7,500 km from the sanctioned length are still pending
for completion. This gap needs to be reduced by the State. During 2015-16 (Upto
December 15), 2,186 Km of road length has been constructed out of physical target of
2,500 Km by UPRRDA. Under Normal PMGSY, 17 incomplete road works and in World
Bank RRP-I, 13 road works sanctioned prior 2010-11 is a cause of concern. State was
requested to complete these road works at the earliest. State was also requested to
submit action plan with current stages for completion of these incomplete road works
of Normal PMGSY & RRP-I. Under PMGSY-II, out of 252 road works sanctioned during
2013-14, only 114 road works are awarded. During the current year, an expenditure
of Rs. 551 Crore has been incurred by the State, out of released amount of Rs. 726
Crore (76%).
(Action: Uttar Pradesh SRRDA)
Director (Tech & I/c Projects-I) requested all the participating States to enter
their data timely and authentically on OMMAS. From 1st January, 2016 onwards, no
physical and financial reports (MPRs) will be accepted from the States, only OMMAS
generated reports will be considered. He further informed that all the data in OMMAS
relating to habitations, DRRP, Core network, year-wise sanctioned proposals, R&D,
Maintenance, R&P module should be updated.
(Action: All SRRDAs)
Regarding works sanctioned under R&D, Director (Tech & I/c Projects-I)
informed that in order to keep record of the New Technology projects, a separate
R&D Module has already been created on OMMAS and all the States have been
requested to update the details of R&D works under the new format on OMMAS
giving complete details of the road, length taken up under R&D, layer wise and also
update the details of completion of such roads. Photographs, Performance Reports
etc are also to be uploaded for such works. He further informed that a MoU between
STAs and Technology providers for R & D projects should be in place for the purpose
of providing training and guidance to PIU’s and contractor for quality execution and
monitoring and also for collecting data of performance evaluation, in those cases
where a new technology project has been sanctioned using a material / technology
for which IRC Specifications are not available.
(Action: All SRRDAs)
The percentage of expenditure incurred w.r.t maintenance fund required is 45%
in Chhattisgarh, 19% in Gujarat, 50% in Maharashtra, 51% in Madhya Pradesh, 23% in
Rajasthan and 73% in Uttar Pradesh during the current year (Upto Quarter ending
Dec.15). Director (Tech & I/c Projects-I) reminded all the participating States to
ensure timely release of maintenance funds to SRRDA indicating that steps should be
taken for its full utilization. States should ensure that the roads constructed under
the PMGSY are maintained properly. Adequate funds for this purpose must be
provided in the budget of the State. States were requested to upload maintenance
expenditure on OMMAS regularly. Chief Engineer, Maharashtra and Rajasthan
informed that by end of March 2016, 100% fund will be utilized for maintenance of
rural roads.
Director (Technical) also requested all the States to provide the data regarding: No. of road works, length and resurfacing cost (Rs. in crore) for the roads
resurfaced after 5-years maintenance. He further requested to provide
the age of the road at the time of re-surfacing.
 Information about roads damaged due to increased traffic during 5 years
and upgraded from State Fund.
 Information about roads damaged due to increased traffic after 5 years
(before design life) and upgraded from State Fund.
Three States namely Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra have
already provided this data, however road-wise information and age of road at the
time of resurfacing was not provided. Accordingly, all participating States were
requested to provide the details. Appropriate provision on OMMAS to be made so
that the State can report expenditure on maintenance of roads beyond 5-year defect
liability period for periodic maintenance (re-surfacing) along with age of the road at
the time of re-surfacing.
Director (Tech & I/c Projects-I) further informed that in many cases data of
awarded works entered by the PIUs on OMMAS is not correct in some cases; it is
many times more than the GoI sanctioned amount. Also, in some cases the data
entered is in Rupees, where as it should have been uniformly in Rs. in Lakh. This has
been corrected by NRRDA from backend and States need to verify and confirm that
the data appearing on OMMAS is correct. States have been requested to re-check the
phase-wise/batch-wise value of awarded works on OMMAS, which was agreed by the
States and assured that this activity will be completed within two month’s time (Feb.
2016) and report sent to NRRDA.
(Action: All SRRDAs)
Status of date wise clearances
Director (Technical & Projects-I) presented State-wise status of Clearances of the
participating states from inception of PMGSY till Dec. 2015. He advised all the States
to correct the online data with respect to year of sanction, Phases/ Batches, Value in
Crores, No. of Roads, No. of Bridges, length etc. on OMMAS, for which States have
agreed. He further advised the States to reconcile the year of sanction for all road
works, as it appears that year of sanction reported on OMMAS is not in accordance
with the year of clearance letter issued by the Ministry. Chief Engineers of all
participating States have assured they will update the Batch-wise details of clearances
on OMMAS by 31st March, 2016. If there is any discrepancy, the State should bring it
to the notice of technical division of NRRDA.
(Action: All States)
Unconnected Habitation
On the issue of reconciliation of eligible unconnected habitations and mapping
of habitations on already sanctioned proposals and those covered under State
schemes, Director (Technical) stated that Data uploaded on OMMAS is not exactly
matching with what has been provided to NRRDA. He requested all the States to
reconcile the data related to eligible unconnected habitations and balance
unconnected habitations and upload on OMMAS. Chief Engineer, UPRRDA assured
that by end of March, 2016 reconciliation will be completed and also corrected on
OMMAS.
(Action: All SRRDAs)
Regarding 1st tier of Quality Control, CQC, NRRDA expressed concern that
NQM comments about quality arrangements being unsatisfactory are too frequent
and are a cause for worry. It was suggested that SQCs should hold regular preferably
monthly review meetings with PIUs so that there is appreciable improvement in
comments on quality arrangements and the results recorded in the quality assurance
registers are reliable. Specific attention is required on aspects such as “Quality
Arrangements”, “Maintenance of Quality Control Registers” and also “Verification of
test results” etc. SQMs should correlate the test results. CQC, NRRDA also expressed
his concern about in 1st tier quality mechanism, field laboratory does not exist in
some Packages, but Quality control register is maintained as per NQM report. This is
a cause of concern and should be specifically reviewed by SQCs.
CQC also stated that from the NQM report, it has emerged that mandatory
requirement of establishing the field laboratory by the contractor, for each package, is
not being monitored closely at the SRRDA level and perhaps not even at PIU level,
resulting in large number of Unsatisfactory / Satisfactory Requiring Improvement,
grading on this item. CQC requested that SRRDA should closely monitor the
mandatory requirement of establishment of field laboratory for ongoing packages. A
provision has also been made available in OMMAS which requires the PIU to record
the date of establishment of field lab by the contractor and to upload its georeference photographs against each package. Further, the details of field laboratory
entered by the concerned PIU have to be validated by the SQC in OMMAS. The SQC
shall validate these lab entries through verification got done by the SQMs during their
field visits. SRRDA level regular review would help in ensuring that the details are
uploaded for all ongoing works within the stipulated time frame on OMMAS. The
following Nos. of packages was field lab not established as per OMMAS.
State(s)
Period
involved
Chhattisgarh
Gujarat
Madhya Pradesh
Maharashtra
Rajasthan
Uttar Pradesh
2001-14
2009-14
2001-14
2005-15
2000-14
2005-14
Packages
involved in
awarded works
481
49
1041
586
508
638
Packages where
field lab not
established (in%)
131 (27.2%)
41 (83.6%)
1028 (98.7%)
196 (33.4%)
365 (71.8%)
633 (99.2%)
Regarding 2nd tier of Quality Control, during course of discussions regarding
pendency of SQM inspection on road works not inspected even once, which have
been completed in 2015-16. In Chhattisgarh, 2 Nos. of works have been completed in
2015-16 and there are 51 ongoing Packages, in Gujarat 33 ongoing packages, in
Madhya Pradesh, 3 nos. completed and 179 ongoing packages, similarly in
Maharashtra, 43 on-going, in Rajasthan 6 completed and 127 ongoing and in Uttar
Pradesh it is 3 in completed and 176 ongoing stage. It is observed that the Packages
are inspected by SQM much later after completion of the road. The works should
have been inspected immediately after its completion. But inspection after one or one
& a half year does not fulfil any purpose. By end of March, 2016, all completed works
should be got inspected by the SQMs. CQC requested all the States to quickly clear all
pendency of SQM inspections (focussing on roads which have not been inspected
even once) and for this to happen, the SQM scheduling process in the States should
be closely monitored by Engineer-in-Chief/ CEs/ COO of SRRDA. CQC also suggested
that SRRDA should also closely monitor the periodicity of field inspections of the PIU
officials on the ongoing projects.
During the discussions, it is further observed that number of dedicated SQMs
shown on OMMAS is lower than the number of empanelled SQMs. CQC requested all
the participating States to correct the number of empanelled SQMs on OMMAS. The
all active SQM assign inspection of work every month for utilization optimum capacity
of available SQM. He also suggested in case of non-availability of retired officer for
SQM, SRRDA can assign the duties of SQM to departmental officer exclusively or
engage through private agencies.
Regarding inspection by Mobile application, except, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh
and Uttar Pradesh remaining States needs to improve inspection by Mobile
application. The SQMs use this application for capturing the geo-referenced and
time/ date stamped photographs and uploading the same in OMMAS along with the
quality grading abstracts for all works inspected henceforth. CQC, NRRDA requested
all the SQCs to ensure that in future all inspections are mandatorily uploaded on
OMMAS using the mobile application by respective SQMs.
(Action: CQC / SQCs)
Under 3rd tier of Quality Control, CQC brought out the no. of ATR’s that were
pending with the States. He requested all the States to clear all pending ATRs in a
time bound manner [Chhattisgarh (19 nos.), Gujarat (76 nos.), Madhya Pradesh (110
nos.), Maharashtra (56 nos.), Rajasthan (62 nos.) and Uttar Pradesh (90 nos.)]. SQC,
UPRRDA assured that 20 ATRs out of 90 will be submitted to NRRDA within a week’s
time.
CQC, NRRDA emphasized concerns about number of contactors whose works
are not inspected even once through NQM (39 in Chhattisgarh, 14 in Gujarat, 71 in
Madhya Pradesh, 41 in Maharashtra, 50 in Rajasthan and 86 in Uttar Pradesh). It was
decided that in next two months, only such road works will be inspected by NQMs.
CQC requested all the SQC to provide the list of road works to NQM and also upload
on OMMAS. All contractors’ works should inspect through NQM. Now the facilities
available in OMMAS to identify those contractor whose work are not inspected even
once through NQMs.
(Action: CQC & SQCs)
CQC also presented details of complaints received in NRRDA during 2015-16
from the participating States. No complaint case pending in Gujarat and Rajasthan
during 2015-16 upto 14th January, 2016. In Chhattisgarh, 2 complaints pending for
commends, in Madhya Pradesh, 2 complaints pending for commends and 1 complaint
pending for ATR against NQM inspection. In Maharashtra, 1 complaint pending for
commends and 1 complaint pending for ATR against NQM inspection. Similarly, in
Uttar Pradesh, 7 complaint pending for commends and 1 complaint pending for ATR
against NQM inspection.
(Action: CQC, CG, MP, MH & UP)
Director (Projects-II) informed about Module-wise Training Programmes
conducted during the year 2015-16 (Upto Dec.2015). Out of 228 officials, 209 officials
have been trained in different modules. Further, States were requested not to
depute any officer who had already attended the same course earlier. Engineer-inChief, MPRRDA informed that MPRRDA has sent its officials/ staff to various other
institutions also which are not mentioned in the list provided in the ‘Training Module’
on PMGSY website. Some of the such institutions are NICMAR Pune, RCVP Naronha
Academy Bhopal, ISRO Hyderabad, MCR HRDI Hyderabad, NIRD Hyderabad, IIMIndore, NIC Bhopal, Mahila Bal Vikas office Bhopal, Training by ICT Consultant. He
requested that the above institutions be also included in the ‘Training Module’ on
PMGSY website so as to facilitate the entries of training programs of MPRRDA in these
institutions on OMMAS.
JS (RC) requested all the States to submit proposal for training on use of
innovative new material, Bridge Design, Mobile Application etc. to NRRDA indicating
number of participants, faculty and funds will be provided by World Bank Technical
Assistance component to the SRRDA, if any. Chief Engineer, CGRRDA requested for
organizing a workshop on “Non-Conventional Material and Technology” with the help
of STA, Raipur, which was agreed.
Finance & Accounts Issues
Assistant Director (F&A) brought out the accounts and financial management
issues. Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar
Pradesh have submitted Audited Balance Sheet of Programme Fund for the year
2014-15. Audited Balance Sheet of Administrative Expenses Fund not yet received
from Chhattisgarh State. Similarly, Audited Balance Sheet of Administrative Expenses
Fund submitted by the States of Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh is not based on OMMAS.
Regarding TDS deducted by the Bank on Interest, Assistant Director (F&A)
advised all the States to take up the matter with Bank not to deduct TDS on accrued
Interest as the Agency is exempted from payment of Income Tax under Clause 12AA
of Income Tax Act, 1961.
Assistant Director (F&A) also requested all the participating States to adjust all
the outstanding advances (Machinery, Mobilization and DPR etc), lying with
Contractors and also furnish Age-wise breakup, status of BG and type of advances,
and necessary follow up in this regard should be taken that BG’s do not lapse.
Assistant Director (F&A) also advised regarding Stale cheques, if outstanding
more than 3 months, need to be cleared in accordance with PMGSY accounting
procedures (issue fresh cheques or cancel cheque altogether).
The States also agreed to concentrate on the clearance of pending final bills of
the contractors and financially close the works on the OMMAS [Chhattisgarh (620
nos.), Gujarat (987 nos.), Maharashtra (379 nos.), Madhya Pradesh (1,027 nos.),
Rajasthan (1,126 nos.) and Uttar Pradesh (540 nos.)].
Assistant Director (F&A) further informed that NRRDA is decided to discontinue
manual payments from 1st April, 2016 and e-payment module of OMMAS is to be
used for payment. Since Gujarat is the only State who has yet to switch to e-payment,
State is requested to operate the e-payment system on priority. In this regards, a
detailed advisory has already issued to all States and also available in PMGSY website.
Day 2: 15-01-2016
The Director (Projects-III & CQC), NRRDA welcome all the STAs, SQCs,
NQMs/SQMs present during the meeting. The discussions basically on observation in
Action Taken Reports (ATRs) of NQM and feedback on New Technology work, IInd Tier
Mechanism (SQM) and Ist Tier Mechanism were discussed. Following are the main
observations found in the ATR of NQM: Photographs not uploaded for rectification / re-laid work for
confirmation.
 General remark given that “QC Register prepared”, it should be
“Required test conducted and entered in QC Register”.
 In some cases where NQM observation regarding Quality Control Lab not
established, the reply given by PIU “QC lab established”. However, its
geo-referenced photographs not uploaded on OMMAS through PIU
Login.
 In some cases, NQM observed that thickness of GSB/WBM/PMC is less
though the reply given by PIU is “thickness checked in other location and
found OK”. There is no mention about rectification done on NQM test
location. Similar reply also given in case where gradation not found
proper.
 In most of the cases the date of inspection done by SQM not mentioned,
only remark given SQM “Verified/Checked” etc.
 Some serious ATR may be required to be seen by Chief Engineer.
CQC suggested that SQCs should hold regular review meetings with PIUs so that
there is appreciable improvement in comments on quality arrangements and the
results recorded in the quality assurance registers are reliable. CQC requested that
SRRDA should closely monitor the mandatory requirement of establishment of field
laboratory for ongoing packages. A provision has also been made available in OMMAS
which requires the PIU to record the date of establishment of field lab by the
contractor and to upload its geo-reference photographs against each package.
Further, the details of field laboratory entered by the concerned PIU have to be
validated by the SQC in OMMAS. The SQC shall validate these lab entries through
verification got done by the SQMs during their field visits. It is observed that in some
States, there is no field laboratory at work site but the Quality Control registers are
maintained. That aspect has to be got checked thoroughly by the SQM/NQM. CQC
opined that the ATRs which are serious in nature must be verified at the level of Chief
Engineer.
Some of the SQM/NQMs opined that in some of the areas, the road runs over
the Irrigation embankment where the carriage widths of the roads are simply
widened without any provision for slope pitching. This aspect needs to be looked into
during preparation of DPR. The SQM asked as to whether accredited materials by IRC
can be used in construction of rural roads. In response, the NRRDA observed that in
minimum 5% cases, any IRC accredited materials can be included in the DPR. Product
name can also be specified. MoRD Book of Specifications contains all the data and the
specification of catalogue of concerned product has to be followed. If there is any
alternative method of stabilsation, the same may also be used. Stabilization by
cement/lime may be done on priority basis. It is purely based on cost economics.
Further, feedback on new technology work, mechanism adopted for monitoring
of ATR’s in IInd Tier, mechanism adopted for allotment of road to SQM for inspection
on monthly basis and process of checking Quality Test by AE, EE, SE and Chief
Engineer in the State was received during the meeting by CQC. JS (RC) advised all the
States that in future all JE, AE and EE should upload the laboratory photographs
through new mobile applications and upload the same on OMMAS. He informed that
this year, apart from the other technologies, Ministry has fixed up the targets for
completing about 5,000 km road length using cold mix and waste plastic technology.
JS (RC) further informed that the State of Punjab presently using manual machine for
waste plastic, participating States may also use this machine as per State’s
requirement.
Director (P-III & CQC) informed that during the month of February, 2016, it is
proposed to organize two workshops on Quality Assurance of “Use of New
Technology” for SQMs and field engineers of SRRDAs.
Director (Technical) suggested that training for the PIU engineers as well as
contractor engineers on Laboratory Testing of Materials should be conducted every
year by the SRRDA/STA. Field visit of PIU laboratory and Contractor laboratory should
be done by SE/CE level officers. STA was also advised to impart training to PIU
engineers and Contractor Engineers on the New Technology R&D projects at their
level after consultation with SRRDA. JS (RC) has suggested training may be imparted
by STA on the laboratory equipments procured and installed by SRRDA. For this
purpose, funds can be demanded from NRRDA. Chief Engineer, CGRRDA informed
that during the month of February, 2016, training programme on Laboratory
equipment will be conducted for field engineers. Further, Engineer-in-Chief, MPRRDA
also informed that State will be organizing a Training programme for field engineers
on Laboratory equipment during July, 2016.
Director (Technical) informed that selected STAs of 10 States were requested to
visit PIU Laboratories in 2014 and provide a report on availability of equipments and
technical staff. However, only STAs of Madhya Pradesh visited laboratories and
provided reports. Summary of important observations of these reports was also
presented. STAs of other States were also requested to take similar visits on priority.
JS (RC) advised all the States that Life cycle cost study of any of the new
Technologies should be in place with support of IIMs and STAs (by two institutions).
For this study, proposal should be submitted through SRRDA to NRRDA/MoRD. Funds
shall be made available under World Bank Technical Assistance.
Director (Technical) further advised all the States to adopt Quality-Cum-Cost
Based System (QCBS) for engagement of DPR Consultants. NRRDA has already
circulated advisory to all the States and also uploaded on PMGSY website, in 2013.
Director (Technical) made a detailed presentation on Revised Guidelines on
Design of Low Volume Flexible Pavements IRC: SP:72-2015, bringing out salient
features introduced now and changes made from previous version IRC:SP:72-2007. It
was informed that the charts for design of Pavements using stabilized base and subbase courses have been included for the first time in these guidelines and will be very
useful in bringing down the cost of construction especially in areas where traditional
materials are not available within economical leads. Well defined process for design
of pavements for upgradation has been included. All rural roads to be designed for a
minimum sub-grade CBR of 5% (atleast fair). A minimum thickness of 100mm soil
cement base and 100mm soil cement sub-base for all rural roads, on the basis of
traffic and sub-grade strength has been proposed. Several queries were raised by
State officials and STAs which were replied by Director (Technical).
He further briefly presented the report of the Expert Group on “Measures for
achieving economy in construction of Rural Roads under PMGSY” covering issues such
as preparation of quality and cost effective DPRs which should be locations pacific and
based on extensive surveys and investigation. QCBS for engagement of Consultants,
Design of Pavement as per IRC:SP:72:2015 recently revised should be strictly
followed, use of semi-circular arch culverts and bridges, gabions as protection
structures, use of CD structures specific to location. He also presented a summary of
item-wise possible cost reduction.
Director (Technical) briefly informed about the publications and training films
recently released on 25th December, 2015 by Hon’ble Minster for Rural Development,
Panchayati Raj, Drinking Water & Sanitation, Government of India. One copy of each
publication was provided to every State. It was also informed that sufficient copies of
these publication and soft copies are being sent to States by post, from NRRDA.
Members STA Team Maharashtra, Nagpur made a detailed presentation on
deficiencies found in preparation of DPRs and the fine tuning to be done, R&D
initiatives taken up for construction of rural roads under PMGSY and future R&D
activities (Annexure-I).
He also informed about the performance evaluation of road constructed using
RBI 81 grade, Zycosil as stabilizer and shredded plastic in bitumen layer. Drainage,
Shoulder Quality and Life, Traffic Changes, Road Safety and involvement of Students
are the main areas to be covered in future R&D activities.
Prof. Vandana Tare, STA Coordinator, SGSITS, Indore made a presentation on
deficiencies noticed in the DPRs indicating that number of DPRs should be prepared
according to the Budget; soil testing must be signed by senior officer, joint visit of STA
and SE / CE for CD works for no deviation etc. DPRs not prepared as per Terms of
Reference (ToR) and adequate time should be given for scrutinizing the DPR
(Annexure-II).
STA Team Member, MANIT, Bhopal made a presentation on R&D activities
taken up for construction of Rural Roads under PMGSY like Coir-Geo Textile, Roller
compacted pavement, use of lime and cement stabilization, use of waste plastic in
bituminous mix. He further informed that MANIT, Bhopal in collaboration with Coir
Board, Kochi has conducted Performance Evaluation Studies of the construction of
PMGSY roads constructed using Coir Geo-Textiles in Madhya Pradesh. With respect
to the issue in DPR scrutiny, Member STA has informed that average cost per km is on
the higher side and efforts required to reduce the average cost of construction,
Material obtain from dismantalation of CD structures need to be utilized, credit for
Dismantle material to be provided in DPRs and laboratory test result not
authenticated (Annexure-III).
Dr. Rajesh Kumar Tripathi, Professor and Head Civil Engineering, National Institute of
Technology Raipur briefed about some observations found in Bridge DPR’s during scrutiny
at NIT Raipur.
CONCLUDING REMARK BY THE JS (RC) & DG, NRRDA
In his concluding remarks, the Joint Secretary (RC) & DG, NRRDA) conveyed
thanks for all the delegates for a productive & useful discussion and the feedbacks
received from SQM/NQM & STAs.
1. All participating states have agreed on enhanced annual targets of length and
habitations connectivity and assured to achieve 100%.
2. States are taking some time in crediting the maintenance funds. States must
ensure that the maintenance funds are promptly credited and properly utilized
so that the performance of the roads is not affected. Review of road wise
maintenance should be carried out at the level of Chief Engineer/
Superintending Engineer on quarterly basis.
3. Maharashtra and Gujarat Rural Roads Maintenance Policy to be notified.
Maintenance subject expert may be deputed to Maharashtra for discussion
with Principal Secretary or Chief Secretary and help in finalizing such Policy.
4. Use of Fly Ash, Geo-textile, Cold mix technology, waste plastic should be
encouraged. The target to be achieved in next financial year will be
communicated to all States. Achievements relating to R&D works under new
technology initiatives on Cold Mix and Waste Plastic to be uploaded on OMMAS
by all the States regularly.
5. Pending interim replies of Mobile Application “Meri Sadak” be sent to
complainant by the states of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh,
without any delay.
6. Two new mobile applications to be effectively used by all PIUs for uploading the
photographs of laboratories and physical progress of different stages of ongoing road works.
7. States must ensure properly and regular updation of MPR data on OMMAS.
From 1st January, 2016 all the MPR reports are now to be generated through
OMMAS. All PIUS are requested to update all the Modules of OMMAS so that
the monthly progress reports are in harmony.
8. Habitation Master reconciliation on OMMAS to be done by March, 2016. In
case of Uttar Pradesh 21 Districts, 6 districts of Madhya Pradesh and 1 district
in Chhattisgarh.
9. Vetting of Schedule of Rates (SoR) for the State of Chhattisgarh by NRRDA to be
done expeditiously.
10.Duplicity of roads of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh on OMMAS to be
removed by C-DAC.
11.Photos of Quality Control tests done are not uploaded on OMMAS.
12.Services of SQMs are to be utilized properly in inspection of road works.
13.Works of few specific contractors are being inspected time and again whereas
works of large number of contractors are left untouched by the SQMs. This
aspect has to be looked into by SQC.
14. Documentation of the good work of SQMs, on similar lines of that of MPRRDA,
where SQMS are making presentations before MPRRDA about their field
inspections should also be carried out by other States.
15.Equipment procurement under World Bank Technical Assistance issue of the
States of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh to be resolved by the
NRRDA/MoRD.
16.Life cycle cost study of any of the new Technologies should be in place with
support of IIMs and STAs (by two institutions).
At the end, the JS (RC) & DG, NRRDA conveyed his thanks to SRRDA, Bhopal for
organizing Regional Review Meeting and providing hospitality.
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