CIDB calls for improved coordination in SA's construction industry

THE Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) has initiated a probe into the allegations of a possible link between project failures within the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport and the grading of contractors appointed to execute these infrastructure projects.

- THAMI MAGUBANE

The organisation said in a statement that it has noted concerns reportedly raised regarding contractors who, despite holding higher CIDB gradings, have failed to deliver on projects within the expected timelines and quality standards. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport recently complained that companies graded very highly by the CIDB were not meeting project deadlines.

It noted that among the challenges is that some companies were “buying” certificates that made it seem like they had the capacity to handle work when, in reality, they did not.

“These allegations are serious, as they strike at the core of the CIDB’s mandate to ensure a credible, transparent and efficient construction industry. We take these allegations very seriously. Our grading system exists to ensure that contractors possess the capability to execute the projects they are awarded. Any suggestion that this system may be compromised, misused or misunderstood warrants immediate attention; said CIDB's CEO Bongani Dladla.