Development schemes: Larkana model district still remains a billion-rupee dream

Money was released but not even half the amount was spent on the actual projects.

LARKANA: The development schemes launched five years ago to develop Larkana into a model district still remain a dream for its residents.

The government released around Rs11 billion for the repairs and maintenance of the 35-year-old drainage system, Khairpur bridge and the Shaheed Benzir Bhutto Stadium grounds. Even after five years, not a single project has been completed - nearly all roads are still in poor condition. The sewerage system is also in dire need of repairs as water keeps overflowing onto the roads.

A government officer told Daily Express, on the condition of anonymity, that there were some financial irregularities in the funds. For instance, Rs50 million were released for the construction of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Girls Degree College, Naudero, but only Rs9.5 million were spent on the project. There are no records explaining the remaining amount.



Similarly, Rs50 million were approved for the construction of Government Boys High School Naudero, of which only Rs13 million were spent. For a rural health centre in Naudero, the government approved around Rs100 million, but only Rs16 million were spent. For Larkana Drainage Scheme, Rs940 million was approved for the scheme’s phase VI and Rs50 million was also withdrawn, but the sewerage system was still in poor condition.

The official said that an investigation committee has been set up to look into these irregularities.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 11^th, 2013.