Vigilance probe reveals financial irregularities in road project

The state government has launched a formal ministerial inquiry after finding serious financial irregularities in the road construction project to Kerala Ceramics in Kundara. The Public Works Department (PWD) has issued an official order appointing an inquiry officer to probe allegations of misconduct and financial losses involving several officials of the department.

The action stems from a surprise check conducted by the Kollam unit of the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau. The vigilance probe revealed a glaring discrepancy between the project measurements recorded in the departmental M-Book and the actual quantities found during the joint on-site inspection. This coupled with the unauthorized overpayment of ₹ 7,30,379/- for the unfinished project resulted in substantial financial loss to the exchequer and yielded illegal profits to the contractor.

The vigilance report specifically recommends strict disciplinary action against the erring officials for abandoning the project midway and not ensuring its timely completion. The administrative department noted that during the tenure of the accused officials, who did not take essential contractual measures, even though the project schedule had expired, there was no progress in the project. With a serious view of the shortcomings, the government has decided to proceed with a comprehensive formal investigation within the framework of strict disciplinary proceedings.

Hyjin Albert, chief engineer of PWD’s bridge division, has been appointed as the investigating officer. She was ordered to thoroughly examine all relevant records, evidence and witness statements and submit a detailed investigation report to the government within one month.

Published – 20 May 2026 20:09 IST