Khyber fights to save approved projects

They have demanded transparent investigations into any irregularities and correction of technical flaws rather than excluding the schemes from the Annual Development Programme (ADP).ARDC member Haji Sherin Afridi told The Express Tribune that he had made it clear on every relevant forum that the approved projects for Khyber district, especially Bara, must continue.

Following reports of possible cancellations, he contacted the concerned officials.

A council meeting is scheduled for the following day to discuss the matter further."Projects facing allegations of commissions, financial irregularities or favouritism towards preferred contractors should be investigated by the government," Afridi said.

He added that relevant authorities had earlier assured that the projects would not be cancelled.

Public-interest schemes should be completed with quality materials and in accordance with standard operating procedures, while any irregularities must be probed transparently.

Funds approved for Khyber must be spent in the district and not returned, he stressed, adding that every effort would be made for the restoration of the projects.ARDC member from Bara tehsil, Izzatullah Hamkhayal, said the council had already clarified that approved projects for Khyber would not be cancelled.

Where complaints of irregularities existed, re-examination had been discussed, not outright termination.

Projects could be suspended temporarily if needed, but those of public benefit on the ground should be completed.

The matter would be reviewed in the upcoming council meeting.Syed Ayaz Wazir, president of the Bara Traders Association, described the reported cancellations as injustice and discrimination against war-affected tribal people.

Khyber fights to save approved projects Khadim Afridi | Updated 3 minutes ago | ARDC demands probe instead of dropping welfare schemes.