News Reporter
A large-scale road construction project worth Rs 2,366 crore in Meghalaya has come under the scanner following serious allegations of corruption and collusion between state engineers and private contractors. The investigation, launched on Monday, October 21, involves key individuals linked to the Public Works Department (PWD) and private companies.
The First Information Report (FIR) filed by PWD Chief Engineer AM Kharmawphlang names nine individuals, including senior PWD engineers and contractors from companies based in Telangana and Haryana. The case pertains to the delayed highway project intended to connect Shillong with Tura via Nongstoin and Rongjeng.
The FIR alleges widespread corruption, fraudulent record-keeping, and cheating, which have resulted in significant financial losses to the state. According to the complaint, the collusion between officials and contractors has caused substantial damage to the public exchequer.
Cost Overrun and Delays:
Initially approved in 2010 under the Special Road Development Programme-North East, the project was estimated at Rs 1,303 crore. However, through several revisions, the cost surged to Rs 2,366 crore. Despite the project's target completion year of 2014, the road remains incomplete, sparking outrage over the mismanagement of funds.
The current investigation was triggered by ongoing arbitration proceedings initiated by private contractors after the PWD rejected their claims for additional payments and contract revisions. It was during this process that evidence of corruption and record fabrication came to light.
Demand for a Thorough Investigation:
The FIR calls for an in-depth investigation into the matter, emphasizing the need to uncover the full scale of the fraud and bring the guilty parties to justice. According to police officials, the inquiry is in progress, and authorities are working to trace the financial transactions and documents involved in the case.
The scandal has cast a shadow over the administration of the massive infrastructure project, raising concerns about governance and accountability in large-scale public works.