RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister and Public Works Minister Arun Sao announced the release of a new Schedule of Rates (SOR) for road and bridge works in the state.

The updated SOR, replacing the 2015 version, will come into effect on January 1, 2025. It incorporates new construction techniques and machinery, aiming to enhance quality and minimize financial risks for contractors.

Addressing the media, Sao emphasized the state government’s commitment to ensuring high-quality infrastructure under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s leadership. The new SOR reflects current labour, material, and machinery rates, aligning with the GST framework introduced in 2017. The update reduces contractors' financial risks by including GST in project costs, streamlining estimates, and eliminating unexpected tax burdens.

The revised SOR introduces provisions for modern construction materials and methods, including soil stabilization with cement and chemicals, pavement white topping, precast RCC components, and innovative safety measures like bamboo crash barriers and noise barriers. These updates aim to modernize infrastructure and ensure more efficient project execution.

Sao also highlighted improvements in road maintenance through the introduction of Performance-Based Maintenance Contracts (PBMC) and Output and Performance-Based Maintenance Contracts (OPRMC). A pilot project using the system will be launched soon, with plans for state-wide implementation based on its success. Under the model, a single agency will be responsible for road upkeep for 5-7 years, ensuring timely repairs and maintenance. Online monitoring will track road conditions in real-time, with penalties imposed for delays.

The Deputy Chief Minister expressed confidence that these changes would result in realistic cost estimates, reduced administrative hurdles, and high-quality, timely completion of infrastructure projects.