Loka Probe into Tunga Canal Project.

A Lokayukta inquiry into the alleged irregularities in the modernisation of the Tunga Canal at a cost of Rs. 127.30 crore was ordered on Monday, following complaint by Opposition in Legislative Council K S Eshwarappa.

Lokayukta Registrar (In-charge) M S Balakrishna told Express that the factual report has been sought from the local Lokayukta Police in Shivamogga after the scrutiny note was approved by Upa Lokayukta Justice Subhash B Adi. The scrutiny note was put up by a probe officer.

“There are glaring irregularities in handling the project by Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Limited (KNNL). It is a prima facie case and hence preliminary enquiry has been ordered. I cannot reveal the details of the irregularities as there are chances of evidence being destroyed. But a police official has been asked to submit a factual report on or before January 11 to proceed further in the matter,” Balakrishna said.

In his complaint to the Registrar, Eshwarappa alleged that there was violations of the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurements Act, 1999 (KTPP Act) in the tender process and the contractor has started work even before the work order is issued.

The BJP leader stated that the technical bid of a lone contractor M/s Ramalingam Constructions Company was opened by the KNNL Executive Engineer on November 30. The same was recommended to the 18th Tender Verification Meeting held by the KNNL Board for the approval on December 9 and it is expected to be approved.

However, the contractor started the work on the canal, which has dried up,

saying the conditions are ideal to make preparatory work for the modernisation, the former deputy chief minister said.

Eshwarappa attached photographs of the canal where work has started even before the work order is issued along with a copy of the letter submitted by Chief Engineer, Tunga Upper Project Zone, Shivamogga, to the Managing Director of KNNL.

THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS