Scores of contractors are awaiting payments of over Rs 90 crore on account of works executed in KPDCL, more than a year ago.
The contractors said in 2018 they were awarded differentworks under ‘Saubhagya Scheme’. “Despite completion of the works a year ago wehave not received the payments,” they said.
The aggrieved contractors working in self-help groups saidthey had raised loans from the banks to complete the work on time but thenon-release of payments has resulted in “accumulation of our liabilitiestowards the banks”.
Syed Ali, chief organizer, Kashmir Valley ElectricContactors’ Association said: “Authorities tell us that they are waiting forrelease of central share of funds but it has been now been a year and we arewithout payments.”
“Most of the contractors are now reluctant to take new worksas they were suffering for delay in payments,” said Bashir Ahmed, Chairman ofthe Association.
The contractors said under the centrally sponsored SaubhagyaScheme, they were allotted the work in various districts of Kashmir. “As perthe contract, we made new LT-HT networks and substations; did work oninstallation of transformers,” they said.
“Some of the contractors from Ganderbal and Pulwamadistricts have not received even a penny,” Ahmed said.
A senior KPDCL official said the liabilities will be clearedonce the government releases the funds. “The issue is under consideration ofthe government. A meeting with Director Finance is expected in a few days. Wewill clear this issue as early as possible, “the official assured.