Rai orders probe over use of low-grade material for slabs to cover drains

Delhi Development Minister Gopal Rai ordered an inquiry into a project in Rithala where local MLA complained of low-grade material being used in construction. In a review meeting of the Irrigation and Flood Department, the minister also directed the officers to complete the pending projects in a time-bound manner.

“There were complaints that the contractor was using low-grade material in the slabs used to cover a drain in Rithala. We have ordered an inquiry into the matter,” said Gopal Rai on Wednesday. He further informed that the officers have been ordered to submit progress report certificates from the local MLAs on the projects they were executing in the area. The flood department has 61 drains under it for de-silting and maintenance besides development projects in slums and unauthorised colonies. He also informed that the department has been ordered not to work in the area where other agencies like DSIIDC are working but complete the already assigned works at the earliest.  

“The officers have been directed to complete the work in a time bound manner or else penal action will be initiated at the next review meeting,” informed Rai. On reasons for delay in the works by his department, Rai admitted apathy at various levels. “Some MLAs have complained that the officers are not pursuing the files related to the release of funds from other departments. Some cases of corruption have also surfaced while in some others, the MCDs are delaying NOCs for the work,” said Rai.

As Gopal Rai also holds the Labour Department of the Delhi government, he informed that around 40 percent labourers have migrated to their villages. “Labourers are facing the worst situation due to demonetisation as they are losing their jobs. We have funds for their welfare but it will not be helpful because it’s not meant to generate employment,” he added.