Ajay Sharma
Reasi, December 28
Despite frequent allegations of corruption and mismanagement, authorities at GREF appears to be in slumber and unmoved.
According to sources, in the latest instance allegations of corruption and mismanagement have surfaced regarding the ongoing road construction project by the GREF (General Reserve Engineer Force) department on the Domail to Bhambla stretch.
“The workforce primarily comprises daily-wage workers, many of whom are aged above 60, with some reportedly in their 80s and 90s,” alleged sources, adding that locals in the area have raised serious concerns about the department’s practices and the lack of oversight by senior officials.
Sources said that the GREF department has not adhered to standard recruitment procedures or proper workforce management.
“Daily-wage workers, some with no technical qualifications, have been elevated to roles like supervisors and engineers,” alleged sources, adding that there is no evidence of inspections by permanent GREF employees to ensure quality control or adherence to protocols.
Sources stated that one of the primary grievances is the blatant violation of road safety norms.
They said that shops and houses have been constructed dangerously close to the main road, with many less than 70 feet away, as required by regulations.
Sources claimed that no action has been taken to address these violations, despite repeated complaints.
Talking to Northlines, a junior engineer from the GREF department, wishing anonymity, confirmed that the mandated distance from the road should be 70 feet.
“A local survey revealed that none of the newly built structures in 2023-24 comply with this guideline,” claimed the JE, adding that instead, approvals and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for these constructions are issued in lieu of easy money.
Meanwhile sources alleged that the GREF department operates under a cloud of corruption.
They accused officials of turning a blind eye to irregularities and prioritizing personal gains.
“Instances have been cited where overnight approvals were granted for illegal constructions after initial objections, raising suspicions of bribery and favoritism,” alleged sources, adding that the employment of elderly workers has also sparked outrage.
They said that many of these workers are allegedly still on the payroll while drawing old-age pensions, which is a clear violation of rules.
Locals have demanded a thorough investigation into the records, including Aadhaar verification and salary disbursement processes.
In a strong message to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, locals have appealed for intervention.
They believed that only a high-level vigilance inquiry can uncover the alleged malpractices and bring accountability to the GREF department.
