Sindh Irrigation Department Audit Reveals Rs23.95 Billion in Irregularities
A 54-point audit report by the Auditor General of Pakistan has uncovered financial irregularities and rule violations amounting to Rs23.95 billion in Sindh's Irrigation Department for 2024-25, including manipulated contract awards and questionable procurements.
An audit of Sindh's Irrigation Department has uncovered financial irregularities and violations of rules amounting to Rs23.95 billion during the fiscal year 2024-25, according to a report by the Auditor General of Pakistan. The 54-point audit report highlights widespread mismanagement of public funds meant for managing the province's irrigation infrastructure and executing development schemes.
The report flags a range of issues, including the unlawful division of contracts, payments made in violation of approved rules, and procedural violations in the processing and clearance of bills. It also points to alleged circumvention of mandatory procedures during the approval and execution of development projects, with certain expenditures justified as emergency works despite questions over their legality and potential losses to the public exchequer.
Additionally, the audit found the acceptance of allegedly illegal tenders and procurements that violated prescribed regulations. Millions of rupees were spent on filling breaches in flood embankments, but the department reportedly failed to provide satisfactory legal or documentary justification for the spending.
The Auditor General has forwarded the detailed report to the Sindh irrigation secretary for further action. Audit authorities have recommended a transparent investigation into the irregularities and legal action against officials found responsible.
The findings raise serious concerns about the department's handling of public funds and its adherence to financial and administrative protocols, especially as irrigation infrastructure is critical for the province's agriculture-based economy.
