The Anti Corruption Commission (ACC), in its investigation of the new sewer lines in Thimphu Thromde has found that 27 manholes are missing. The investigation was started after the Royal Audit Authority (RAA) observed corrupt practices with the project. RAA during its audit on the contract had found variations in the number of manholes constructed with the actual payments made.
New sewer lines were constructed last year in Motithang, Taba, Langjophaka and Yangchenphu areas. The placements of the manholes were one of the main components of the contract. But during an audit conducted by the RAA, it was found that most of the manholes were covered under the blacktopping. Following the observations by the RAA, the ACC dug the roads in these areas to confirm if the actual number of manholes of the contract were constructed or not.
The Investigation found that 27 manholes were never constructed although they had been paid for. The majority of these missing manholes were found to be in Motithang, Changangkha and adjoining areas. The works to construct the new sewer lines had been given to Chime Phagma Constructions.
According to sources, a total of 41 manholes that were buried under the road have been exposed as per the technical design. The case is still under investigation.
