Johnston Fernando, Minister of Highways has instructed the Secretary to the Ministry to look into the legal possibility of terminating the contracts of contractors who have not commenced work on these roads after obtaining contracts and advance payments.
Minister Johnston Fernando further stated that he should be informed as soon as possible about the legal requirements for the immediate termination of the contracts of contractors who have been delaying the commencement of the construction of highways and roads after obtaining contracts and advances in accordance with the tender procedure.
The Minister has already received a number of complaints from the public as well as various organizations and associations regarding contractors who have not commenced work on roads. The Minister further said that even delays in projects often result in higher fees and public money would be wasted.
Minister Johnston Fernando further instructed the Secretary to the Ministry to look into the possibility of filing lawsuits under public property act against contractors who squander public money in this manner.
