The article highlights significant irregularities in the Tungabhadra Irrigation Board (TIB) project in Karnataka, particularly the Tungabhadra Elleru (Elleru) project, involving unauthorized bill payments and incomplete works. Key issues include: Unauthorized Letter of Authorization (LOA) Issuance The TIB issued Rs 211.46 crore in LOAs for bill payments, including works not yet executed. 106 projects were approved, with 23 projects still in the "bill preparation" stage, raising concerns about premature financial commitments. Allegations suggest that non-existent works (e.g., bridges at 196 km, 198.500 km, and 201.050 km) were billed, despite no construction being completed. Incomplete Infrastructure Steel bridges at specific kilometers were never built, yet Rs 12.87 lakh was allocated. Underground tunnels (under tunnels) at 170/200 km and 173/850 km had partial work (e.g., cement coating but no sealing), with Rs 35.10 lakh approved. Foundations for construction sites were not laid, yet payments were sanctioned. Political and Contractor Allegations A contractor from Ballari (linked to the ruling party) is suspected of exploiting the system, receiving preferential treatment while smaller contractors face financial strain. Political influence is implied, with the contractor allegedly manipulating the process to secure funds for incomplete projects. Governance and Accountability Concerns Government guidelines require verification of work completion before payments, but the TIB ignored these rules. The TIB secretary denied allegations, stating they followed protocols, but critics argue the evidence (e.g., unconstructed bridges, partial tunnels) contradicts this claim. Public funds may be misused, undermining transparency and accountability in infrastructure projects.#karnataka #tungabhadra_irrigation_board #tungabhadra_elleru_project #ballari #tib_secretary
