– Workers on double-shift to complete project ahead of Independence celebrations

THE MINISTRY of Public Infrastructure has completed over 30 percent of works on the stands at D’urban Park during its first week of managing the development project. President David Granger recently handed over responsibility of the project to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) following several complaints of substandard work by officials who were in charge.
The project officially commenced on April 22, 2016 and according to a release from the MPI, it is progressing on schedule, with all contractors being mobilised and all stands being allotted.
MPI engineer, Bhageshwar Murli, revealed that 300 persons have been employed to conduct work on the 30 stands onsite and at least four of the stands are at the roofing stage while others are still undergoing the correction of defects and the completion of foundation works.
“So far, everything has been progressing as scheduled,” Murli said.
He attributed successes so far to the employment of the double shift system, to which all contractors have been adhering. According to the release, while the smaller contractors have had more difficulty with compliance, they have nonetheless cooperated since they recognised the importance of the project, Murli added.
However, he said, the weather has proven to be a hindrance.
“The weather has been very, very unkind to us but we’re still pushing on. We’ve been stressing to all contractors the importance of pushing through the conditions,” Murli said.
Additionally, he explained that MPI workers have taken a very “hands on” approach to the project and have been working on their own shift system to ensure that the project is always overseen by an MPI official. He added that briefings are held twice a day to maximise efficiency.
“We’ve shared the scope of works with all of the contractors during our briefings to ensure everyone is on the same page,” he said.
The set deadline for the completion of the stands – and the entire project – is May 12, two weeks before Independence Day. The outstanding works cover six areas, which include roofing and remedial works for spectator bleachers; completion of superstructure, walls and roof for VIP stand; electrical wiring, lighting and power supply; access driveways and bridges; creation of sanitary facilities; and drainage works.