By Binta Jaiteh
Karamo Jaiteh a consultant for Studi International Company said the contractor has been paid 6 internet Payment Certificates (IPC) that is amounting to 28 million dollars which represent 64 % of the contract agreement.
Speaking during a public hearing at the Parliament select committee on Monitoring and implementation of Government projects engaging the Ministry of Work, Transport and Infrastructure he told the members that most of the drains in Banjul were constructed in the 50s which was functioning well with continuous maintenance over the recent years.
Lapses, according to him, occurred due to lack of maintenance of the drainage system which led to the unsanitary condition of the city leading to water borne diseases.
Mr Jaiteh further highlighted numerous factors leading to the poor sanitary condition of the island capital which include lack of maintenance of the major pipes among other factors.
Kebba K Barrow member for Kombo South said project implementation should go with facts and timelines to make sure that havoc that the people face during floods could be avoided.
The Kombo South lawmaker called for proactive action and proper implementation of programmes in order to avoid the recurrence in the future.
The chairperson of the committee honourable Yaya Gassama commended the government for mobilising funds for what he described as ‘a bold step to give back to Gambians.’
The minister for Works, Transport and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah confirmed the payment for the work was done after verification by the consultant after a discussion between the government and the contractor.
