Uttarkashi Polytechnic Project Stalled for a Decade, Rs 5 Crore Spent with No Construction
The construction of a proposed government polytechnic building in Pipli village, located within the Dunda development block of Uttarkashi district, remains incomplete nearly ten years after its initial approval. This prolonged delay has sparked significant frustration among local residents who had donated land for the educational institution.
Project Timeline and Current Status
The polytechnic project was officially approved in 2014, with construction scheduled to commence in 2016. However, to date, no work has begun at the designated site. The land, which was voluntarily donated by villagers to facilitate technical education for youth in the area, lies vacant and unused.
Currently, students of Pipli Polytechnic are forced to study under severely limited conditions. Classes are being conducted in just four rooms, highlighting the urgent need for the proposed infrastructure to support proper educational facilities.
Allegations of Financial Mismanagement
Local residents have raised serious concerns, alleging that crores of rupees have already been expended on the project despite the absence of any physical construction. Resident Surendra Panwar, who obtained information through the Right to Information (RTI) Act, revealed that approximately Rs 5 crore has been shown as spent on the polytechnic building's construction.
"Villagers had voluntarily donated land for the institute, but construction had not begun even after nearly 10 years," Panwar stated. He further alleged that the implementing agency documented this expenditure without any corresponding work on the ground, demanding an impartial probe and strict action against those responsible.
Official Response and Investigation
Acting principal of Pipli Polytechnic, Smarika Shah Khati, provided details on the administrative steps being taken. "The construction work had been assigned to the Uttar Pradesh Construction Corporation. Following complaints from villagers, an inquiry committee was formed under the chairmanship of the district magistrate," Khati explained.
The committee has completed its inquiry and submitted its report to the government. In response, the government has issued instructions to register a First Information Report (FIR) in the matter. Additionally, the Uttar Pradesh Construction Corporation has been directed to submit a departmental report, including the names of officers and employees associated with the project, to facilitate further legal action.
Growing Resentment and Future Implications
The ongoing delay has led to mounting resentment among villagers, who had hoped the polytechnic would provide crucial technical education opportunities for local youth. The situation underscores broader issues of project implementation and accountability in government infrastructure initiatives.
As authorities move forward with investigations and potential legal measures, the community awaits tangible progress on a project that has remained stagnant for a decade, impacting educational access and development in the region.
