The protracted delays surrounding the completion of the new Legislature Complex in Jammu epitomise the systemic inefficiencies that plague infrastructure projects across the region. The project, started in April 2011, has been marred by a series of missteps and lack of oversight, resulting in a decade-long saga of unfinished business. The latest development in this ongoing debacle is the preparation of a DPR by the PWD, which has projected an additional requirement of Rs 134 crore for the completion of the project. This would bring the total cost to over Rs 200 crore-a staggering figure, especially when one considers that Rs 72 crore has already been spent by the Jammu and Kashmir Projects Construction Corporation (JKPCC). Yet, despite this revised DPR, no clear timeline has been established for the resumption of work. The project remains in limbo, with its fate dependent on the cumbersome process of approvals and tenders, which could delay the restart of work until next year.
This lack of urgency is troubling. The Legislature Complex is not merely a construction project; it is a vital piece of infrastructure that symbolises the governance and democratic process of the region. Its prolonged delay raises serious questions about the capabilities of the agencies involved. The blame, however, cannot be placed solely on the PWD or JKPCC. The fact that the project was initially started without proper administrative approval, as noted in the report, is a glaring oversight. This violation of protocol speaks to a broader culture of laxity and disregard for established procedures, which has only compounded the issues faced by the project. Moreover, the indecisiveness over the utilisation of space previously earmarked for the now-defunct Upper House highlights a lack of foresight in planning. As the project now awaits examination by the Finance Department and subsequent approval by the Administrative Council or Cabinet, the Government must treat this matter with the urgency it deserves. The delays have already eroded public confidence, and further procrastination will only deepen this disenchantment.