Construction of 23 Anganwadi Centers in Baghpat Delayed Due to Lack of Contractors

Baghpat 07 September (desk):-The construction of 23 Anganwadi centers in Baghpat has been delayed despite the allocation of a budget, due to the unavailability of contractors to take on the projects. Although funds were released for the construction of these centers, work has yet to begin as the tender process has failed to attract any bidders. This has raised concerns over the condition of more than 150 Anganwadi centers in the district, many of which are in a dilapidated state.

To address the issue, the state government had approved a budget of ₹12 lakh per center, with funds sourced from Panchayati Raj, MNREGA, and the District Program Office. The majority of the budget, approximately ₹7 lakh per center, was set to come from the Panchayati Raj department. However, repeated attempts to initiate the tender process by the Public Works Department have been unsuccessful, leaving the much-needed construction work at a standstill.

The state government, unhappy with the delay, has directed the Chief Development Officer (CDO) and the District Program Officer to ensure the tenders are opened by September 9, with work to begin immediately afterward. The goal is to provide the centers with proper infrastructure so children can receive not only nutrition but also education in a safe environment.

The planned construction covers several villages, including Santoshpur, Khedki, Kanoali, Bichpadi, and others. The delay in construction has also drawn criticism from local residents and Anganwadi workers, who stress the urgent need for safe and well-maintained buildings to support early childhood care and education programs.