Photo courtesy: Deccan HeraldFurther to the collapse of a span of under construction elevated corridor on six-laning of NH-248-A from Rajiv Chowk to Sohna on August 22, 2020, NHAI has taken strict action against the concessionaire – Rajiv Chowk-Sohna Highway, and its promoters – Oriental Structural Engineers.Following the collapse of span on the project, the concessionaire was issued a Show Cause Notice to explain on the violation of the obligations under the Concession Agreement. The explanation furnished by the concessionaire was found to be un-satisfactory. Moreover, lapses were found in implementation of the safety measures/workmanship/adherence to construction methodologies/procedures, which were highlighted time and again to the contractor before the said incident. Therefore, it was established that the concessionaire failed to discharge its obligation to construct a safe structure and to ensure safety of the user and pedestrians on the previous occasions and during the accident as well. Accordingly, with immediate effect, the concessionaire has been debarred from participating in any NHAI bids (directly or in association/ JV) involving major structural works until they demonstrate reliable construction methodologies/designs and adequate safety measures at sight; and demonstrate that such type of accident does not occur in other part of their works.NHAI has taken the lapses in construction very seriously and has warned the contractors/concessionaires/consultants to maintain the standards as per the contractual obligations. Failing which, strict action including black listing shall be taken.Recently, CW had also reported that NHAI had also taken strict action against the defaulting firms on the unfortunate accident during launching of girders on February 16, 2020, at the new four-lane bridge over river Ganga at downstream of Farakka Barrage including approaches connecting the Farakka-Raiganj section of NH-34 in West Bengal, leading to two casualties. Further, on the mis-happening of the collapse of RE Wall on Jetpur-Gondal Section of NH-8B in Gujarat, NHAI had also taken strict action against the defaulting firms/personnel involved with the project. Furthermore, to establish a transparent and comprehensive ‘Performance Rating’ System for its consultants, contractors and concessionaires, NHAI has developed a ‘Vendor Performance Evaluation System’.