Governance / Odisha Govt Pulls Up Departments Over Slow Pace of Building Construction

Bhubaneswar, Sept 22: The Odisha Government has expressed strong displeasure over the sluggish progress in the construction of government buildings under various centrally sponsored schemes, warning officials of strict action for delays, officials said on Tuesday.

Departments such as School & Mass Education and Health & Family Welfare have come under scrutiny for the tardy pace of work in constructing essential infrastructure. Senior commissioners and secretaries have conveyed dissatisfaction, noting that despite multiple agreements being signed, both physical and financial progress remains unsatisfactory and lags behind last year’s performance.

In a letter issued by the Chief Engineer of the Rural Works Department to all Superintending and Executive Engineers, officials have been directed to complete the pending construction works by March 31, 2027. The communication makes it clear that failure to utilise sanctioned funds within the stipulated timeframe will result in the unspent grants automatically reverting to the Centre, thereby imposing additional financial burden on the state government.
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The government has emphasised accountability, stating that officers found negligent will be held directly responsible and face disciplinary action. The warning comes amid concerns that delays in school and health infrastructure projects could adversely impact service delivery in rural and urban areas.

Officials have been urged to accelerate execution, ensure timely utilisation of funds, and adhere strictly to deadlines. The directive underscores the state’s determination to avoid lapses that could jeopardise both financial resources and public welfare.