PMO directs officials to prioritise development projects

To manage resources efficiently and reap the desired benefits, the Prime Minister Office (PMO) has directed officials to undertake development projects on a priority basis.

It also directed them to ensure the completion of ongoing projects instead of chasing new ones, which are less important.

Along with the above instructions, the PMO gave a 15-point directive on June 13, according to a letter sent to the finance ministry. The Business Post obtained a copy of the letter.

“Priority should be given to almost completed projects. Besides, the fund should be allocated to the fast track and mega projects,” according to the letter.

The PMO has also instructed the Ministry of Planning and the Project Evaluation Committee to examine the project proposal accurately before making any recommendations.

“Focus on allocating funds for important projects such as food security, agricultural productivity, electricity, energy, social security, and health services,” it told the officials in the letter.

“The project should be taken up as soon as possible after scrutinising the feasibility study report. The agencies related to the projects should examine the capability and experience of the firms appointed to complete the projects,” reads the letter.

“The inclusion of new organisations, which are not recommended in the feasibility study reports, should be discouraged. Proper design should be followed in the implementation of infrastructure development projects,” it said.

The PMO also warned that stern action will be taken as per the Public Private Regulation against those contractors who will fail to complete the projects within the stipulated time.

“Necessary steps will be taken to hold the concerned persons accountable,” it said.

Other directives included concerned ministries and departments’ proper plans to implement projects on time, rigorous supervision, frequent site visits, regular meetings between the Project Implementation Committee and Project Steering Committee and cooperation among the project-related implementation agencies.