Chief Minister M.K. Stalin Releases Data Rate Books for Construction Works Under the Public Works Department

Chennai – Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru M.K. Stalin, released Data Rate Books for construction works under the Public Works Department (PWD) at the Secretariat. These books, categorized into eight volumes, have been prepared to standardize construction and engineering works across various departments in the state.

In Tamil Nadu, construction and engineering projects are carried out by multiple departments, each following its own data rate books tailored to their specific needs. The last revision of the PWD’s Data Rate Book was in 1984, and with the advancements in modern construction techniques and technology, the Tamil Nadu government recognized the necessity of a unified and updated version.

To accomplish this, a special committee was formed, comprising the Principal Chief Engineer of PWD, the Chief Engineer (Buildings), and other key officials from various government engineering departments. This committee worked to integrate the latest technological advancements, machinery, and construction methodologies into the new standardized Data Rate Books.

With rapid technological progress in construction, the committee held multiple meetings to revise and finalize the data rates. The newly released eight-volume Data Rate Books cover different engineering departments:

• Volume 1 & 2 – Public Works Department (PWD)
• Volume 3 – Rural Development Department and Tamil Nadu Water Supply & Drainage Board
• Volume 4 to 8 – Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply & Sewerage Board

These updated books will help government engineering departments streamline construction cost estimates and ensure efficiency and transparency in public projects.

The revised Data Rate Books, introduced after 40 years, incorporate the latest changes and advancements in the construction sector. They provide detailed information on construction materials, procurement methods, machinery, and techniques, ensuring accuracy in cost estimation and resource management.

The launch event was attended by Hon’ble Minister for Public Works, Thiru. E.V. Velu, Chief Secretary Thiru. N. Muruganandam, IAS, PWD Secretary Thiru. S. Satyakandan, IAS, Secretary of Rural Development & Small Ports Department Thiru. R. Selvaraj, IAS, Principal Chief Engineer of PWD Thiru. Manivannan, and several other senior government officials.

Issued by: Director, Information and Public Relations Department, Chennai-9.