A significant water supply scam has been uncovered in Shimla district, centered around fraudulent payments for water tankers that were never actually delivered during last summer’s drought. The scam is under investigation by both the state government and the Vigilance Department, with the amount potentially exceeding one crore rupees. Officials, contractors, and possibly political figures are believed to be involved in the irregularities.
The allegations focus on the Theog subdivision, where water was meant to be delivered to drought-stricken villages between February and June of the previous year. However, records reveal that vehicle numbers associated with the delivery vehicles actually corresponded to motorcycles, cars, and even personal vehicles of officers, rather than legitimate water tankers. Some villages, which lacked proper road access, had water deliveries falsely recorded in their names.
Diary Times is now on Whatsapp Channels. Click here to join
In response, the state government has appointed Superintendent Engineer (SC) Kasumpti to conduct an internal investigation, while the Vigilance Department is running a parallel probe. The investigation is led by ASP Narveer Singh Rathore, known for his involvement in the fake degree scam. Initial findings suggest that the total value of the fraud could surpass one crore rupees.
To secure the investigation, the Vigilance Department has seized crucial records from the Jal Shakti Department and the SDM office. Additionally, phone records are being analyzed to uncover any political connections. Officers and contractors involved have been summoned for questioning, with further actions expected depending on their testimonies.
As part of the investigation, several officers from the Jal Shakti Department have already been suspended due to the findings in a report submitted by the Superintendent Engineer. This report highlighted significant discrepancies, including the use of incorrect vehicle numbers. Officers close to retirement now face the possibility of their pensions and allowances being withheld until the investigation concludes.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri has assured that strict action will be taken against those responsible, from top to bottom. “Those involved, regardless of their position, will be held accountable,” he stated.
Continuing the achievement of the journey of effectiveness and credibility of more than 10 years in the career of journalism, as a woman journalist, I am Serving as the founder, promoter and editor of DiaryTimes with the trust and support of all. My credible coverage may not have given a big shape to the numbers, but my journey presents articles that make you aware of the exact and meaningful situations of Himachal’s politics, ground issues related to the public, business, tourism and the difficult geographical conditions of the state and financial awareness. DiaryTimes, full of the experience of my precise editorial expertise, is awakening the flame of credible journalism among all of you, so that the eternal flame of meaningful change can be lit in the life of the people of the state and the atrocities being committed against the people can be brought to the fore, I am motivated for that. If even a small change comes with the power of my journalism and the whole world becomes a witness to that issues, then I will consider myself fortunate.
