BAI Eastern Centre Flags Key Contracting Issues, Seeks Uniform Bid Capacity, Timely Payments and Revised SOR

Ahead of Engineers’ Day 2026, the Builders Association of India (BAI), Eastern (Kolkata) Centre, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting West Bengal’s infrastructure development and strengthening collaboration between the government, engineers and the construction fraternity. The association also highlighted the important role played by contractors and engineering professionals in translating the state’s development plans into quality infrastructure projects.

BAI highlighted a number of key issues aimed at making the government contracting process more uniform and practical, including a uniform methodology for calculation of Bid Capacity across government departments, enhancement of Schedule of Rates (SOR) for Irrigation, PHE and other major departments, inclusion of nominees’ names in Form 2911, rational plant requirements for bituminous works, extension of contractor credential validity to seven years, uniform implementation of MSME rules and benefits, rationalisation of the Defect Liability Period, immediate release of outstanding payments to contractors and restoration of the enlistment system across government departments.

The event was attended by eminent industry leaders, including Rajib Manna, Chairman, Builders Association of India, Eastern (Kolkata) Centre; S K BASU, Past All India President, Builders Association of India; Raja Mukherjee Honourable Secretary, Builders Association of India, Eastern (Kolkata) Centre; ⁠Pradeep Choudhary, National Trustee, Builders Association of India, ; ⁠Sudip Kumar Dutta, General Council Member, Builders Association of India.
Rajib Manna, Chairman, Builders Association of India, Eastern (Kolkata) Centre, said that the association looks forward to working closely with the government to create an environment that supports efficient execution of infrastructure projects.

“Engineers and contractors are vital partners in the development journey of West Bengal. Our objective is not only to highlight concerns but also to contribute constructively towards creating a stronger and more efficient contracting ecosystem. With greater uniformity in policies, realistic rates, timely payments and continued dialogue, we can collectively accelerate infrastructure development and deliver better projects for the people of the state,” said Manna.

Shri Sushanta Kumar Basu, Past All India President, Builders Association of India, emphasised the importance of a stable and supportive ecosystem for the construction industry. “Engineers’ Day is an opportunity to recognise the contribution of engineering professionals and everyone associated with building the nation. A progressive contracting framework, supported by transparent policies and timely decisions, will enable contractors and engineers to contribute even more effectively to West Bengal’s growth,” he said.
BAI also highlighted the significance of Engineers’ Day 2026, to be celebrated on September 15, which commemorates the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya. The celebrations will recognise the contribution of engineers and professionals whose expertise continues to shape the country’s infrastructure and development.

The BAI Kolkata Centre reiterated its commitment to constructive engagement with the government and all stakeholders and expressed confidence that continued collaboration will help address industry concerns while further strengthening West Bengal’s infrastructure growth story.