AMC Introduces Independent Surprise Quality Checks of Civic Development Works

Ahmedabad: The Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has introduced a new quality-control mechanism under which an independent team will conduct surprise inspections of development works being carried out by its various engineering departments and zones.

The move is aimed at ensuring that civic infrastructure projects meet prescribed quality standards, tender specifications and approved designs. Quality checks will be carried out at different stages of a project, from the start of construction to its completion and inauguration.

Under the new system, independent quality-control teams will inspect water supply, drainage, stormwater drainage and related works under the concerned Chief Engineer (PHW & SMC). Roads, bridges, buildings and other civil and infrastructure works will be checked under the Chief Engineer (Road/Bridge/Building), while streetlights and related infrastructure will be inspected under the concerned Additional Chief Engineer.

The teams will review the Quality Assurance Plan (QAP), tender specifications, applicable national and international standards, the source and quality of raw materials, laboratory test results and completed drawings. Field and material tests, workmanship and project performance will also be checked at different stages of construction.

Defects to be rectified within 7 days

According to AMC Circular No. 46, any quality defect, deviation from specifications or poor performance detected during an inspection must be reported to the concerned officer, and corrective action must be taken within seven days.

For serious defects affecting structural safety, durability, functionality or public safety, the work must be stopped until corrective measures are taken and approved. Such serious defects must be rectified within two days.

Detailed inspection reports will have to be prepared for each site and submitted to the Deputy Municipal Commissioner (Quality Control) within 15 days. A Non-Conformity Report (NCR) register will also be maintained to track deficiencies and corrective action.

If repeated quality failures or non-compliance are found, the AMC will initiate penal action against the concerned contractor or Project Management Consultant (PMC) as per the contract terms.

The civic body will also prepare a monthly quality-control report covering inspections conducted, deficiencies identified, corrective measures taken and their current status. The report will be submitted to the Municipal Commissioner for review.

Bills to be cleared only after quality verification

The AMC has further directed that running and final bills for development works will be forwarded to the Finance Department for payment only after quality inspection reports for all stages have been verified and identified deficiencies have been rectified.

The civic body said the concerned implementing officers will remain responsible for the execution of projects, while departmental officers will be responsible for ensuring that quality standards are not compromised.

Circular No. 46 is available for viewing and download on the AMC website. DeshGujarat