CID begins inquiry into Rs 2,300-cr road scam

SHILLONG, Nov 24: The state CID which has been assigned with the task of investigating the alleged Rs 2,300-crore Shillong-Nongstoin-Tura road project “scam” has begun its probe into what is being termed a highly technical matter.
A source from the police confirmed that the CID has started inquiry into the matter.
Refusing to divulge any details on the progress of the investigation, the source said they have already collected all the documents and other details from the state police.
The police faced challenges while inquiring into the matter due to its technical nature. Even a month after filing of the FIR, the police were still doing preliminary investigation, forcing the government to hand over the case to the CID.
In September, the state government had directed the police to probe the multi-crore rupees alleged scam. Nine individuals, including senior government engineers and officials from two private companies based in Telangana and Haryana, were named in the FIR.
The road connects Shillong with Tura via Nongstoin and Rongjeng. The project was approved in 2010 as part of the central government’s Special Road Development Programme-North East.
The project cost was initially estimated at Rs 1,303.83 crore. After several revisions, the cost was enhanced to Rs 2,366.77 crore. The project’s original completion date was scheduled for 2014.
The FIR was filed by PWD (NH) Chief Engineer AM Kharmawphlang, based on information revealed during arbitration proceedings conducted by the Arbitral Tribunal.