Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of two-day workshop for review of procedures regarding construction works in PWD, HPSEB, IPH and rural development departments here today, Dhumal told the delegates that about 3337 schemes in the state were lying incomplete. Rs 337 crore had been spent on these schemes till day, he added.

Talking about the need of early completion of projects, he said that he had directed the Tourism Corporation to focus on about 10 projects, of 28 on which the work was going on, so that these projects could be completed before March 31 this year.

Productivity of departmental labour is another area of concern which could be improved, the Chief Minister said. Chief Minister Dhumal informed the services of more than 60,000 beldars in PWD alone were not utilised in a more productive manner.

The Chief Minister said that setting up of Roads Corporation could also be considered for ensuring speedy completion of projects.

Hinting a change in the rules of promotion of engineers, the Chief Minister said from now experience would also be made a criteria for promotions.

Referring to the economy in wasteful expenditure, Dhumal said that officers should come forward with their realistic opinion as they had the experience and knowledge both regarding merits and demerits of any scheme or work.

A.K. Goswamy, Chief Secretary, speaking on the occasion said that cost escalation was the matter which should be deliberated at the workshop threadbare and also stressed the need for holding seminars in this regard.

Satanu Behuria, secretary of PWD, Yogesh Khanna, secretary finance also gave their views on effecting economy and system improvement.

Sanjeev Gupta, special secretary, IPH, PWD and monitoring and coordination cell, Chief Minister's office said that 10 per cent economy in the present system by improvement could save Rs 100 crore at present prices.