Rasamny, public works contractors discuss challenges facing infrastructure projects
Public Works Minister Fayez Rasamny met a delegation from the Syndicate of Public Works and Building Contractors, headed by engineer Maroun Helou, to discuss key issues affecting the contracting sector and the challenges facing the implementation of public infrastructure projects.
The delegation outlined the impact of acute shortages of cement, aggregate, sand and fill materials, as well as the limited availability of supply sources, warning that the shortages were delaying projects and increasing construction costs. It also highlighted the effect of fluctuating prices for raw materials and operating costs on project execution and contractors’ ability to meet contractual deadlines.
Discussions also covered outstanding payments owed to contractors and consultants, along with the mechanism for calculating price adjustments under a Cabinet decision. The delegation called for the completion of procedures needed to implement the decision, enabling the disbursement of dues at the approved exchange rate, while also urging measures to secure sustainable and lawful sources of construction materials and extend contractual deadlines for projects affected by exceptional circumstances.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to establish a joint committee between the Ministry of Public Works and Transport and the Syndicate of Public Works and Building Contractors to follow up on the issues raised and develop appropriate mechanisms to address them in coordination with the relevant authorities.
