LUCKNOW, May 25 -- Aiming to improve quality of public infrastructure projects, the Uttar Pradesh government has introduced stricter tender norms for contractors involved in the construction of roads, bridges, culverts and government buildings. According to the new rules, contractors bidding 10%-15% below the estimated cost will have to deposit 50% of the difference amount as additional security. Those quoting 15-20% lower rates will need to deposit 100% while bids exceeding 20% below the estimated cost will require 150% additional security. The new GO issued on May 23 for work under the public works department (PWD) says: "Contractors quoting rates significantly lower than the estimated project cost will now be required to deposit additional performance security." The government has also decided to scrutinise the quality of ongoing and previous projects of the contractors before awarding new contracts. If poor quality work is found during inspection, the contractor may be debarred for two years after due notice and process, said the GO. Officials said tenders may also be cancelled and reissued if contractors fail to meet quality standards. The decision was approved during a recent state cabinet meeting and the official order was issued by principal secretary, PWD, Ajay Chauhan. The policy also includes stricter conditions for contractors who have not completed any project in Uttar Pradesh in the past two years. Such contractors will have to submit even higher performance security deposits for low-rate bids....