Early Times Report
Rajouri, Dec 3: Even as work on construction of a canal in this frontier district is yet to be completed, there are reports about a few people withdrawing money for its repair works.
Sources told Early Times that in 2002, the then government had started work on construction of a 4.5 kms canal from Thunba Garan to Nohoti in Nowshehra sub division of Sunderbani tehsil. The work, slated to be completed in four years, was estimated to cost Rs 2.33 crore.
But 14 years on, while the work is incomplete, some officials have allegedly withdrawn money for repair works of this incomplete canal.
Sources alleged that this incomplete canal has become a "goldmine" for a few people. "It is criminal to draw money for repair work which is logically impossible to be done," sources added.
"When the construction is incomplete, how can money be released for repairs? This is ridiculous," said a senior official.
He alleged a few people have been annually grabbing lakhs of rupees in the name of repairs of this project. He said if the government orders an inquiry the muck would be exposed.
Meanwhile, the locals have sought a probe by the Vigilance Organization. "If the government speaks of war against corruption what prevents it from initiating a probe into the matter," the locals asked.
They said the completion of work on construction of canal would have ended their years of woes. "Not only work is incomplete, public money is being grabbed" the locals alleged. |
