In a decision of far-reaching ramifications, Punjab Government has decided to form monitoring committees to expedite cleanliness work of the drains and rivulets across the State — a move expected to ensure transparent utilisation of funds.
The local elective representatives have been given the responsible task of surveillance of the work in progress and to ensure the hassle-free and timely completion of the work. “In these committees, District Agriculture Officers, Area Irrigation Officers and sarpanch of the respective village in whose jurisdiction the canal or rivulet is passing, have been inducted as members of these monitoring committees,” said an official spokesperson of Irrigation Department.
He said the Deputy Commissioner concerned would monitor the proper disbursement of funds, while Irrigation Department would ensure photography of the work, once before it starts, then during 50 per cent completion and after it.
“The record of photography would be put before the respective monitoring committee for its vetting. After the scrutiny and acceptance of the report by the monitoring committee, the funds would be released to the contractor,” clarified the spokesperson.
He said the Chief Engineers, Canals, would be responsible for overall work and transparent uses of funds, whereas Chief Engineer, Vigilance, would have to conduct surprise monitoring visit at least once in every region and to report to the respective Deputy Commissioner.