PM Modi flags ‘unacceptable’ quality issues in infra projects, questions need for ‘fourth-party audit’: Report

Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised concerns over quality issues in infrastructure projects during his review of six key initiatives in the Railway, Road, and Power sectors across nine states, totaling over ₹30,000 crore. Modi asserted that quality issues in construction are "unacceptable" and questioned the effectiveness of the "third-party audit" system, suggesting the need for a "fourth-party audit."

He emphasized that delays in infrastructure projects have significant consequences, delaying benefits for citizens, businesses, and the economy. The PM stressed the importance of an end-to-end approach, urging ministries and states to adopt an integrated perspective and address critical gaps hindering timely completion. He advocated for leveraging modern technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, to enhance agricultural data utilization under the Digital Agriculture Mission.

Modi also called for strengthening cyber fraud prevention through enhanced training, awareness, and education, particularly for vulnerable sections of society.