Aankhijhyal has broadcast a story about misappropriation, corruption and lingering execution of Sikta Irrigation Project. 

Sikta Irrigation Project was started in the fiscal year 2062/2063 B.S. Fourteen years have passed and still the project has not completed. In its construction phase itself, the structure has shattered twice, first in 2073 B.S. and second in 2075 B.S. Although the capacity of Sikta Irrigation canal is 50 cusecs, the canal was destroyed when water was released at 4 cusecs.

Local communities state that the construction of canal structure without detail pedological study and the use of low quality construction materials are the main causes behind the destruction of the irrigation structure.

Though the ongoing project is being monitored by the Prime Minister’s Office, Minister (MoEWRA), Secretary of (MoEWRA), Ministry of Finance and National Vigilance Center on a regular basis, authorities instructed to complete the project quickly but did not heed to the suggestion from the local communities.

Office of the Auditor General, Nepal in its annual report has raised questions on the working modality and quality control of the Project. Commencement of construction without identifying the presence of soluble soil, analyzing and finding a concrete remedy, the office has declared lack of seriousness during the planning phase.

Recently, Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority, has filed writ in special court for corruption against owner of Kalika Construction JB Bikram Pandey (ex-minister) and other 21 involved. Kalika Construction JB agreed to construct 42 KM out of 45 KM of canal in Rs. six billion. Sikta Irrigation Project, where Rs. 14.9 billion has been spent, of which Rs. eight billion has been misappropriated.

Watch the program here: