Authorities seek explanation over slow progress, alleged use of site material for sand extraction
Bilal Dar
Sopore, September 16: Authorities have served a notice to the contractor executing the Eco-Park project at Ningli in Sopore over the alleged non-commencement or extremely slow progress of construction work and for the reported unauthorised use of site material for extracting sand.
According to an official notice, the work was allotted under allotment No. 17 of 2025-26 dated November 1, 2025, with directions to commence and complete the project within the stipulated timeframe. However, officials said the work has either not been started in the required manner or is progressing at an “extremely dismal and unsatisfactory pace”.
The notice states that the progress achieved at the site is not commensurate with the prescribed completion schedule and other contractual requirements. Authorities said the delay could adversely affect the timely completion of the project and that the matter has been viewed seriously by higher authorities.
The contractor has been directed to immediately mobilise adequate manpower, machinery, materials and other resources to accelerate the pace of work and ensure completion within the stipulated period.
In a separate notice, officials alleged that the contractor was sieving earth and other material available at the project site to extract sand for use in the construction work. The practice was reported by field staff of the Ningli Zone and was described by authorities as being contrary to approved specifications and procedures.
Officials said the use of such material could compromise the quality of the project and violate contractual obligations.
The contractor has been asked to explain within two days why the practice was adopted and under whose authority the material was processed. The notice warns that failure to furnish a satisfactory explanation could invite action under the applicable rules and contract conditions without any further notice.
Meanwhile, local residents have also sought intervention from the Forest Department over the delay in completion of the project. In a representation addressed to the Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir, & (CED Wucma ) residents of Ningli Bala, Tarzoo, alleged that the Eco-Tourism Park project has witnessed negligible progress over the past three years and urged authorities to take action against the contractor.
Social and environmental activist Ajaz Ahmad Dar, who forwarded the representation on behalf of local residents, said the prolonged delay had deprived the area of a key eco-tourism facility. “The project was envisioned as an important recreational and tourism asset for the locality, but there has been virtually no progress on the ground. Residents are concerned about the delay as well as the alleged use of substandard material, which could affect the quality of the project. We have requested the department to investigate the matter, take strict action if any violations are found and ensure the project is completed at the earliest,” Dar said.
The residents have also sought the imposition of penalties, if warranted, and the timely completion of the Eco-Park for the benefit of the local community.
