Summary

In February 2026, SAI India published a report on the implementation of road development projects in Madhya Pradesh. SAI audit inspected 25 of the 56 divisions and subordinate organizations of the Madhya Pradesh Public Works Department, covering road construction and maintenance activities across the state. The auditors examined 276 road construction projects and ten infrastructure projects financed by the BRICS New Development Bank for the period 2018–2023. An audit of road projects implemented with financial support fr om the BRICS New Development Bank revealed a low level of compliance with deadlines: one project was completed on time. Nine other projects showed significant deviations from planned road lengths, resulting in underutilization of the allocated loan funds. Avoidable penalties were assessed due to delays in funding disbursements. Funding from the BRICS New Development Bank also includes funds for capacity-building in road infrastructure. Of the total 260 million Indian rupees (US$2.7 million) allocated for these initiatives, only 53% has been spent. The audit also identified cases wh ere projects were launched before land rights were registered and the required permits were obtained, leading to delays and inefficient use of resources. SAI also found that the allocation of funds from various sources often deviated from their intended purposes. For example, funds allocated for road network development were used to purchase land plots and relocate utility lines, although these costs should have been covered by the state budget.