Nongpoh, Aug 29: To deliberate on the challenges faced by contractors in Ri-Bhoi, particularly in matters related to work allotment and other associated difficulties, members of the All Ri-Bhoi Government Contractors and Suppliers Association convened a meeting today at Sajer here.
Hundreds of contractors took part in the meeting, raising concerns over the many problems they continue to face. One of the major issues highlighted was the lack of opportunities for local contractors, as most government works are being executed by contractors from outside the district.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, the association’s vice-president, Plielad Tiewsoh, said that the gathering discussed at length several hardships faced by local contractors. He pointed out that many projects are being awarded exclusively to one contractor, without fair distribution, leaving others without work opportunities.
He further stated that several high-value projects, worth crores of rupees, are often given to “high-level” contractors, while those from Ri-Bhoi receive little or no work. In addition, even when they do secure contracts, local contractors face undue delays in bill payments, unlike the privileged contractors with strong connections who receive timely payments.
Moreover, the practice of packaging large projects, worth crores of rupees, and awarding them to a single contractor has deprived many local contractors of employment opportunities, he stressed.
The association, he added, has resolved to meet with the Chief Minister to place these grievances before him. They will particularly demand that at least 80 percent of all projects originating within Ri-Bhoi should be allotted to local contractors.
