Noida Authority Engages Agency for Infrastructure Quality Audit

The Noida Authority has announced plans to hire an independent agency to oversee the quality of public infrastructure projects in the city. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and accountability across various government undertakings. The selected agency will monitor a broad range of projects, including civil, electrical, water, sewer, horticulture, and public health works.

Mahendra Prasad, an officer on special duty for the Noida Authority, emphasized the importance of completing projects on time while ensuring accountability and transparency for public benefit. The authority manages infrastructure projects worth approximately ₹1,200 crore annually, which encompass roads, bridges, parks, footpaths, flyovers, sewer lines, and public buildings.

Independent Oversight for Enhanced Quality

The forthcoming project, which will last for three years, establishes a continuous external audit mechanism to verify that developmental activities adhere to established engineering, safety, and environmental standards. The tender for this initiative was released on October 20, with bids open until November 21 and technical evaluations scheduled for November 24.

The chosen firm will act as an extension of the Noida Authority, providing unbiased assessments of construction quality, safety compliance, and project timelines. This Third Party Quality Assurance (TPQA) consultant will conduct random and periodic audits of major works, including those managed by other government agencies. It will also recommend corrective measures for any identified discrepancies, ensuring compliance with labour laws and safety regulations at construction sites.

Officials noted that projects valued over ₹10 crore, or those deemed critical, will undergo daily inspections. In contrast, projects costing more than ₹50 lakh will receive regular audits. Inspections will be conducted without prior notice, capturing detailed photographic documentation with date and geo-tags.

Dedicated Team and Laboratory Development

To ensure comprehensive oversight, a three-member review committee within the Noida Authority will assess the consultant’s performance on a quarterly basis. The agency will deploy a technical team comprising senior engineers, managers, and assistant managers specializing in civil and electrical domains. Approximately 30 full-time professionals will be dedicated to this project, led by a general manager with a minimum of 25 years of experience in quality supervision.

In addition to monitoring construction, the agency will assist Noida in establishing a fully equipped testing laboratory for materials such as concrete, steel, and bitumen. This facility aims to further enhance the quality assurance process, ensuring that all materials meet stringent standards.

With this strategic move, the Noida Authority is taking significant steps towards improving the integrity and quality of its infrastructure projects, ultimately benefiting the public and ensuring efficient use of resources.