Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 27 May 2025
Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, Hon’ble Member of Parliament from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, has urged the Administration to review the delegation of Powers for Granting of Administrative Approval and Expenditure Sanction of Developmental Works up to ₹50 lakhs. The MP has called for the restoration of these powers to the Chief Engineer (CE), Andaman Public Works Department (APWD), citing delays and inefficiencies following a policy shift in 2021.
Under Order No. 141 dated January 18, 2021, the authority to grant Administrative Approval (AA) and Expenditure Sanction (ES) for projects valued up to ₹50 lakhs was transferred from the CE, APWD to the respective Deputy Commissioners (DCs), as part of a decentralization effort. However, Mr. Ray noted that this move has unintentionally hindered the timely execution of crucial development works, particularly those routed through Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).
In a letter addressed to the Administration, the MP emphasized that the lack of technical expertise at the district level has led to frequent delays, unnecessary queries, and even unwarranted rejections of project proposals submitted by Executive Engineers. “Since the implementation of this order, many important works have either been stalled or significantly delayed, thereby affecting service delivery and developmental progress,” he stated.
Mr. Ray further pointed out that the Deputy Commissioners are already burdened with key responsibilities such as revenue administration, law and order, and the implementation of centrally sponsored schemes. The added responsibility of evaluating technical engineering proposals without sufficient expertise, he argued, is counterproductive.
“The Chief Engineer and his team have the technical knowledge and institutional experience required to assess and sanction such projects efficiently,” he said, recommending that the powers for projects up to ₹50 lakhs be returned to the CE, APWD. “Such a step would expedite the execution of essential works and serve public interest more effectively,” he added.
The MP expressed confidence that the Administration would recognize the gravity of the issue and take prompt action to streamline the approval process for the welfare of the people of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.