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 different works under ‘Saubhagya Scheme’. “Despite completion of the works a year ago we have not received the payments,” they said. The aggrieved contractors working in self-help groups said they had raised loans from the banks to complete the work on time but the non-release of payments has resulted in “accumulation of our liabilities towards the banks”.Syed Ali, chief organizer, Kashmir Valley Electric Contactors’ Association said: “Authorities tell us that they are waiting for release of central share of funds but it has been now been a year and we are without payments.”“Most of the contractors are now reluctant to take new works as they were suffering for delay in payments,” said Bashir Ahmed, Chairman of the Association. The contractors said under the centrally sponsored Saubhagya Scheme, they were allotted the work in various districts of Kashmir. “As per the contract, we made new LT-HT networks and substations; did work on installation of transformers,” they said.“Some of the contractors from Ganderbal and Pulwama districts have not received even a penny,” Ahmed said.A senior KPDCL official said the liabilities will be cleared once the government releases the funds. “The issue is under consideration of the government. A meeting with Director Finance is expected in a few days. We will clear this issue as early as possible, “the official assured.
