Unveiling Alleged Scam in Kaleshwaram: Vigilance Teams Intensify Search in Irrigation Offices
A Prelude to a Judicial Probe into the Sinking of Medigadda Piers
In a significant development Kaleshwaram Project Vigilance teams intensify searches, the state government has initiated searches by the Vigilance and Enforcement wing within the offices of the irrigation and Kaleshwaram project in Hyderabad. This move acts as a precursor to the proposed judicial probe into the alleged multi-crore scam surrounding the Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project.
Vigilance Teams on the Hunt
Around 12 Vigilance teams have been deployed, conducting searches at various locations. These teams reportedly seized classified documents from the offices and interrogated officials regarding project planning, execution, and expenditures. Tensions flared at the Jala Soudha – head office of the Irrigation department, where Vigilance wing and irrigation officials had a confrontation during the searches.
Demand for Transparency
Each Vigilance team, comprising 12 members, vigorously pursued information from key figures like Engineer-in-Chief Muralidharan, Kaleshwaram ENC, and Kaleshwaram Corporation MD Hariram. The demand for the handover of documents was met with initial hesitation, suspecting vested interests. However, after obtaining permission from Irrigation minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy, the office of the ENC provided details, including DPRs, cost escalation, and construction quality, to the Vigilance team.
Focus on Medigadda Barrage
The search teams particularly focused on the Medigadda barrage, where one of the piers recently sank. The Divisional Engineering Office in Mahadevpur, Jayashankar Bhupalpally district, was visited, and documents related to the Medigadda and Kannepalli pumphouses were seized. This strategic move emphasizes the government’s commitment to uncovering irregularities in the Kaleshwaram project.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Officials stated that these Vigilance team searches mark the initial step in intensifying the probe into irregularities. Following the collection of prima facie evidence, the government plans to order a judicial probe, exposing potential wrongdoing in the construction of the Rs 1 lakh crore Kaleshwaram project. A letter has already been dispatched to the High Court Chief Justice, seeking a judicial investigation by a sitting judge.
Closing In on Irregularities
ENC Muralidharan assured that Irrigation officials are providing every document related to the Medigadda and Kaleshwaram project to the Vigilance team. This meticulous approach indicates a determined effort to uncover the truth behind the alleged scam.
The Telangana Congress Government has swiftly initiated a thorough investigation into purported irregularities surrounding the execution of irrigation projects, with a particular focus on the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP). The Vigilance and Enforcement (V&E) wing teams are at the forefront, conducting extensive searches across Irrigation Department offices in the state.
Probing Engineering and Financial Lapses
Multiple teams from the V&E Department have been deployed to conduct searches, targeting various Irrigation Department offices, including those of Engineers-in-Chief (ENCs) in key locations like Hyderabad, Ramagundam, Gajwel, and Karimnagar. The search scope extends to field-level offices, encompassing Chief, Superintending, and Executive Engineers involved in project execution.
Seizing Vital Documents
In their pursuit of uncovering irregularities, both technical (engineering) and financial, the V&E teams are actively seizing files, documents, and computer hard disks. This preemptive measure aims to prevent any potential tampering with crucial evidence. The documents under scrutiny range from the pre-bid stage, forming a comprehensive investigation into project works.
Expert Assistance for a Thorough Examination
To ensure a meticulous examination, the V&E authorities are considering collaboration with experts from JNTU-H for engineering aspects and engaging chartered accountants for financial aspects. The State Government has specifically directed the V&E Department to address irregularities before opting for a judicial probe. Allegedly, the Irrigation Department authorities have been hesitant to share details, even during high-level review meetings.
Safeguarding Against Document Tampering
Recognizing the risk of document tampering or record alteration by some irrigation engineers and officials to conceal potential mistakes during project execution, the V&E inquiry has taken precedence. This proactive approach aims to secure evidence before initiating further legal proceedings.
Congress Allegations and Government Response
The Congress party has consistently alleged widespread irregularities and corruption in irrigation projects, particularly KLIP. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, during the first session of the Legislature last month, announced the intent to conduct a judicial probe into these alleged irregularities. This announcement was reiterated by Deputy Chief Minister M. Bhatti Vikramarka and Minister for Irrigation N. Uttam Kumar Reddy.
