Assam's Public Health Engineering Department defends itself against corruption charges

Guwahati, May 5, 2019:

The Public Health Engineering Department of Assam has defended itself against charges of corruption leveled by the Asomiya Yuba Mancha. The organization had claimed that the PHE department is using pipes meant for latrines to supply water in the state. The organization had also accused Minister Rihon Daimary of corruption and demanded action against him.

In reaction to these allegations, statement issued by by the PHE department stated: "It has come to the notice of PHE Department that some electronic media channels have telecast a news item regarding alleged corruption in the procurement of UPVC pipe and construction at Individual House Hold Latrine (IHHL) which have been made by 'Asomiya Yuba Mancha' on 28 April 2019 and the same has been published in newspaper media on 29th April 2019."

The PHED has made the following clarifications in this regard: firstly, since May 2016, no procurement has been made for UPVC pipes/fittings. Hence, the purchase of low quality UPVC piper and specials as alleged by the body is "baseless" and the issue of corruption in connection with the procurement of UPVC pipes and fittings does not arise.

The Department also stated that the PHE department has been utilizing the UPVC pipes which were procured earlier for different PWSS for completion of more than 1,500 ongoing Pipe Water Supply Scheme.

In its statement, the department also stated that if any complaint with proper evidence is received regarding the quality of works, the department initiates immediate and take disciplinary action against defaulters.

Moreover, the department stated that the work of the PHE department is carried out observing all Government and the Minister-in-charge of the department does not make any undue interference in any matter of the department.