MANDI/SHIMLA (Munish Sood)
The Himachal Pradesh vigilance bureau has intensified its investigation into the alleged Rs 1 crore tanker water supply scam that occurred during the severe water crisis in Theog subdivision in Shimla district.
On Monday, seven Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) and Junior Engineers (JEs) were questioned for over two hours. A contractor associated with the case was also interrogated, with reports suggesting the seizure of the mobile phones of some officials.
Probing records, tracking movements
The vigilance bureau is examining records from the Jal Shakti Department, intending to use GPS data to trace tanker routes during the supply period.
Additionally, mobile location records of tanker drivers will be analyzed to verify their movements. Bank accounts of the suspended engineers and contractors are under scrutiny to detect any financial irregularities linked to the scam.
On-site inspections and tender reviews
Early Monday, the vigilance team conducted site inspections at water sources claimed to have been used by the contractors.
Field visits included the Leloo Bridge on the Giri river near Theog and Kyar Khud, another location mentioned in official records. These inspections aim to verify the authenticity of water transportation claims made by the department.
Sources said the investigation extended beyond engineers to include clerical staff, with last year’s tendering processes being thoroughly reviewed. Allegations suggest that supply orders may have been manipulated to favour certain individuals.
Scam figures may exceed Rs 1.13 crore
Amid ongoing scrutiny, the scale of the scam is suspected to be larger than initially reported, possibly exceeding Rs 1.13 crore.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri has assured the public of strict action against those involved. “No one will be spared and justice will prevail,” he said. Additional Chief Secretary (Jal Shakti) Onkar Sharma also affirmed a fair and transparent investigation.
The scam came to light after glaring irregularities were found in supply records. Water is learnt to have been shown delivered to a remote village with no road connectivity. Even more shocking is that registration numbers of motorcycles and a government official’s car were listed as tankers in the supply documents.
In response to these revelations, the government has already suspended 10 engineers from the Jal Shakti Department. Investigators are determined to uncover the full extent of the scam and hold all perpetrators accountable.
