MGNREGA fund of Rs 9 lakh allegedly misappropriated at Ghilamora in Lakhimpur district

A CORRESPONDENT

LAKHIMPUR: A fund amounting to Rs. 9,22,218 sanctioned under MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Gurantee Act) was allegedly misappropriated at Sonari Chapori Gaon Panchayat under Ghilamora Development Block of Dhakuakhana Subdivision in Lakhimpur district.

This fund was sanctioned through Zila Parishad under a scheme titled as 'Earthen Peripherial Bundh from Balijan PWD to Hari Mondir' in 2019-20 in order to construct a 900-metre long road at No. 10 Balijan Kachari Ward under the said Gaon Panchayat. The road connects Balijan Kachari Harimandir with Balijan Kachari PWD Road. Regarding the issue, the local public has expressed resentment against the Ward Member concerned.

In connection with the misappropriation of the fund, the local public alleged that an amount of Rs. 7,00,000 was already drawn 'by completing 90 per cent work' but the road did not turn at least one foot higher than the paddy fields of both sides. Rather, it turned lower than the paddy fields at various places. At present, there is no water logging in the paddy field but the PWD road connecting portion of the road has been submerged in water as it is at a lower level than the paddy fields. As a result, it has become difficult for people to use the road. Local people have expressed strong reaction and vehement resentment.

Regarding the issue, the Ward Member concerned, Prabha Sonowal told media persons in the presence of the local public, "The progress of the construction of the road by job card holder workers was delayed due to the Assam Legislative Assembly Election, 2021 and heavy downpour. The workers stopped working on account of the current rainy season. So, the construction work of the road could not be completed in time." She admitted that the implementation of the work was of poor quality and not adequate.

But this statement of the Ward Member could not convince the local public. The local people have demanded the SDO (Civil) of Dhakuakhana to launch a probe into the issue.

Also Read: 10 Assam Govt Schemes to be Kept Ready for MGNREGA Job Card Holders

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