In a major development, infrastructure major L&T has been penalised ₹50 crore for significant delays and substandard execution of the city’s long-pending 24×7 water supply project. Belagavi South MLA Abhay Patil shared the information.
Of the total penalty, the company has already deposited ₹30 crore, while ₹20 crore remains pending. The issue has sparked widespread public debate, especially in the backdrop of extensive road digging across the city and the deteriorating condition of roads linked to the project.
Contract Under Scanner
Sources indicate that the action may not be limited to financial penalties alone. The government is reportedly considering a review of the contract, and legal action against the company cannot be ruled out.
Earlier, in September 2023, the Belagavi Municipal Corporation had imposed a fine of ₹21.46 crore on L&T. Then Municipal Commissioner Ashok Dudgunti had issued the notice. However, with no visible improvement in the pace or quality of work, the State Government stepped in and nearly doubled the penalty to ₹50 crore—signalling serious concerns over the project’s execution.
Delays, Extensions and Poor Quality Work
The 24×7 water supply project, a key component of the Smart City initiative, was originally scheduled for completion in phases within 60 months. Despite extensions granted by the government, the project remains incomplete.
Apart from delays, the quality of work has come under sharp criticism. Major roads across Belagavi were dug up for pipeline laying, but restoration has been poor, leaving citizens to deal with dust, potholes, and traffic congestion.
Protests and Political Pressure
Taking a strong stand, MLA Abhay Patil staged a protest outside L&T offices along with his supporters, warning that negligence in essential public infrastructure projects would not be tolerated. He also demanded immediate recovery of the pending penalty and faster completion of the project.
The issue has repeatedly surfaced in Municipal Corporation general body meetings, increasing pressure on the administration. The matter has also been raised in the Legislative Assembly, indicating growing political attention and urgency.
Source: Sakal