Shimla: The Theog constituency in Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh is reeling under allegations of irregularities in its water supply system, with preliminary investigations revealing shocking details.
A vigilance team probing the water supply ‘scam’ has uncovered that instead of supplying clean water from Lelu Bridge as stipulated in tender conditions, contractors allegedly sourced muddy, non-potable water from nearby drains using tankers and pickups.
Contaminated water supplied to residents
This contaminated water was then supplied to residents, compromising public health. The probe further revealed discrepancies in tanker operations. While official records show ten tanker trips, only four were necessary.
Moreover, water supply operations were carried out without the supervision of Jal Shakti Department employees, raising questions about procedural lapses.
Falsified reports and negligence in billing
Initial findings into water supply ‘scam’ indicate that tanker drivers and pickup operators fabricated their trip reports, with office staff preparing on-site documentation remotely. A junior engineer and a clerk reportedly overlooked their duties, and bills were processed without verification.
These were signed off by an assistant engineer and forwarded to an executive engineer without any checks, eventually leading to payments to contractors.
Vigilance interrogated engineers, contractors
The Vigilance Department has interrogated engineers, contractors and department employees, including pump station staff at Lelu Bridge in water supply ‘scam’.
It emerged that no water was ever transported from the designated pumping station. The Vigilance team also discussed the case with DGP Ashok Tiwari, who emphasized the need for an exhaustive investigation.
Former Theog MLA Rakesh Singha visited the Vigilance office, urging officials to ensure impartiality in the inquiry. Singha, who has been tracking the case via RTI, expressed his concerns over the lapses.
Statements of 25 individuals recorded
The Vigilance team has recorded statements from 25 individuals, including tanker owners, drivers and contractors. Officials are analysing digital records and anticipate filing an FIR within the next two days. A senior officer said, “We are working to unravel the full scope of the scam and will ensure accountability.”
The investigation highlights systemic flaws, from on-ground operations to higher-level oversight. With widespread public anger and mounting political pressure, authorities are under scrutiny to resolve the case swiftly and transparently.
