IAC threatens to expose more irrigation projects

Indian Against Corruption (IAC), which is part of social activist Anna Hazare's agitation against graft, on Saturday signalled that it will continue to expose violations and corruption in irrigation projects in the state.

Indian Against Corruption (IAC), which is part of social activist Anna Hazare's agitation against graft, on Saturday signalled that it will continue to expose violations and corruption in irrigation projects in the state.

HT Image

In a press release issued on Saturday, IAC said that in the coming days, its activists will expose blatant cost escalations in Channera, Kal Kumbhe, Lendhi, Shai and Kaalu irrigation projects in Konkan. These revelations could add to the woes of water resources minister Sunil Tatkare, who is already on the back foot following allegations of massive corruption in his department and disproportionate assets.

IAC activists have alleged that in three projects – Kondhane, Balganga and Susari - being implemented by the Konkan Irrigation Development Corporation (KIDC) the escalations are in the range of 150 to 500%.

The state has 747 ongoing projects, estimated to cost the state exchequer Rs75,000 crore. Despite having the most number of big dams in the country, at over 1693, the state's gross irrigated area is among the lowest.