NHAI clears contractors’ bills worth Rs 250 billion

NHAI has cleared bills worth about Rs 250 billion owed to contractors in March 2020. The authority has launched a drive to ensure that all pending payments are cleared. While there were issues pertaining to delivery of cheques at bank branches once the nationwide lockdown was announced, the authority has reached an understanding with banks on the issue. Meanwhile, NHAI is expecting contractors to invoke the force majeure clause, which is likely to increase its liabilities. Besides, the authority is expected to provide extension of timelines for projects under construction.