Project implementation delays. Project implementation experienced significant delays. The initial delay was caused by insufficient project readiness, inadequate dedicated staff assigned by Public Works Department, delays in finalizing the design reports and bid documents, and time needed to obtain environment and/or forest clearance for tree cutting. During construction, the delays were caused by poor performance of some contractors and Naxalite attacks. To avoid implementation delays, project preparation should be undertaken before approval. A project implementation unit with adequate staff should be in place before approval. Other projects also identify these lessons and corrective actions have been incorporated. Coordination with other government agencies for forest and environmental clearance should be enhanced. ADB has been providing training to the project implementation unit on procurement, safeguards, and contract management._x005F_x000D__x005F_x000D_Performance of contractors. During implementation, the significant delay in completion of the works was caused by poor performance of some contractors. For future projects, the qualification criteria for contractors should be strengthened. The contractual provisions related to contractor performance, such as mobilization, staffing, and deployment of equipment and funds, need to be strengthened to minimize the possibility of poor performance by the contractors._x005F_x000D__x005F_x000D_To improve the environmental performance of projects, the following measures are suggested: (i) a systematic and continuous approach in developing awareness, and periodic capacity enhancement of project staff regarding ADB's environment policy, procedures, and requirements; (ii) ensuring timely mobilization and continuation of environment experts by the executing agency, consultants, and contractors until closure of a project as appropriate; (iii) systematic supervision, monitoring, data mapping, and reporting mechanisms on implementation of environmental safeguards; and (iv) periodic reviews by environment experts associated with the project to undertake timely corrective actions, if any. These measures will be particularly relevant, given the magnitude of air and noise emissions from road operation and community safety impacts, which may increase due to the likely increase in traffic growth rates.
Chhattisgarh State Road Development Project