Tojg Bridge Construction is Nearly Complete, but Several Contract Issues Need to be Addressed

摘要

Provisional Reconstruction Teams (PRTs) are a key tool in helping Afghanistan become a self-sustaining, moderate state. To enable PRT commanders to respond to urgent humanitarian relief and reconstruction requirements, PRTs may use Commander's Emergency Response Program (CERP) funding. This report focuses on the efforts of the U.S.-led Farah PRT to construct a 300-meter bridge across the Farah River near Tojg village in Farah Province using CERP funding. A firm, fixed-priced, $1.745 million construction contract was awarded in September 2007. In August 2008, the follow-on PRT Commander questioned the usefulness of the bridge and recommended that the project be cancelled; however, after an investigation, the PRT's command authority directed that the project continue. In this light, SIGAR examined the status of the bridge construction, focusing on several contract issues. SIGAR also examined PRT plans for turning the bridge over to the Afghan government. SIGAR reviewed available contract files, interviewed Farah PRT and other U.S. officials, and conducted an on-site inspection in June 2009. Since the inspection, SIGAR has corresponded with the current Farah PRT Commander to update information. SIGAR performed this performance audit in Afghanistan, from May 2009 to February 2010, in accordance with generally accepted government auditing standards.