Delay in infrastructure projects

Out of the 1,568 central sector infrastructure projects being monitored by the government, as many as 721 (46%) were delayed. This was informed by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) to the Parliament.

Details –

• The top three sectors with maximum number of delayed projects are – Ministry of Petroleum, Ministry of Railways and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
• Apart from railways, power, coal and an atomic energy project, the list of top 20 delayed projects also includes a multi-state petroleum project.
• As reported by the project implementing agencies on the Ministry’s Online Computerised Monitoring System (OCMS) portal, the main reasons for increase in time of the projects are –
  • • Law and order problems,
    • Delay in land acquisition,
    • Delay in environment and forest clearances,
    • Funding constraints,
    • Rehabilitation and resettlement issues,
    • Local body or municipal permissions,
    • Utility shifting and contractual issues.

Background –

• The Infrastructure and Project Monitoring Division (IPMD) and Programme Implementation Wing in the MoSPI is the management arm of the Government of India.
• It provides management services by providing latest information in a global manner on implementation of projects or programmes costing Rs 150 crores and above and performance of infrastructure sectors.
• The Project Monitoring Division brings out periodic reports and assists ministries and project authorities in the timely implementation of projects and programs.
• It provides a control mechanism to prevent delays in implementation.
• It also assists the Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure (CCI) and others in the reviewing and decision-making process.

The project is being carried out in two Phases –

• Phase I of the project would computerise the existing system using internet technology and provide on-line transfer of information, processing of information with least human interface and bring quality action-oriented outputs.
• The Phase II of the project will commence with the review of the systems of monitoring Programme or Project Planning, Implementation and Performance Management of Infrastructure in Public and Private Sector.