Prioritize local contractors: AOCWA urges Odisha government

Bhubaneswar (By Abhishek Mohanty): The All Odisha Contractors' Welfare Association (AOCWA) has strongly condemned the Odisha government's alleged neglect of local contractors.

Recently, two major projects worth Rs 1173.46 crores (24/7 water supply) and Rs 1256.48 crore (underground sewerage system) under the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) without considering the interests of local contractors.

AOCWA claims that the government's approach is favouring big companies from outside the state, putting the livelihoods of local contractors at risk. The association alleged that dividing the projects into smaller packages (Rs 110-115 crores) would allow 35-40 local contractors to participate, ensuring faster execution, lower costs, and better maintenance.

Association President, Jagadish Patra said, "The government's neglect is not only affecting local contractors but also delaying major infrastructure projects in Odisha. AOCWA urges the government to prioritize local contractors and take immediate action to address their issues.

AOCWA's supports local contractors and promote sustainable development in the state, Patra added.