Guwahati: The BJP-led government in Assam has made a record investment in fixed infrastructure, such as roads and buildings, in the financial year 2021-22.

According to the Comptroller and Auditor General's report, the state's capital expenditure increased by 62.31% to Rs 20,125.83 crore during 2021-22 from Rs 12,399.39 crore in the previous year.

Despite the increased investment, the CAG report also highlighted that no public-private partnership (PPP) projects were completed in the state during the same period.

However, there were three ongoing projects with an estimated cost of Rs 2,182.81 crore, which included six road projects worth Rs 1220 crore being implemented by the Public Works Department, the development of Adbari Bus Terminus, and the construction of games village phase 2.

The PPP model is an arrangement between the government or statutory entity and a private sector entity to provide a framework that enables them to work together to meet the rising demand for infrastructure development. However, the lack of completed PPP projects in the state raised concerns over the effectiveness of the model in driving infrastructure growth.

As of 31st March 2022, there were 554 incomplete or ongoing projects with a progressive expenditure of Rs 1,622.28 crore, according to data provided by the Public Works, Public Health Engineering, and Irrigation Departments.

The report indicated that there was a need for better project management and planning to ensure timely completion of projects.

The increased investment in fixed infrastructure by the Assam government was welcomed by many, as it is expected to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the state.

However, concerns were raised about the delay in completing ongoing projects and the lack of progress in PPP projects.
It may be mentioned here that Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has time and again raised the issue that projects are completed on time.

He had also emphasized the need for better project management, planning, and implementation to drive infrastructure growth in the state.

The CAG report highlights the challenges faced by the state government in driving infrastructure development and the need for effective collaboration between the public and private sectors.

It calls for a more focused and coordinated effort to address the challenges and ensure that the state's infrastructure needs are met.

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