Poonch Tourism department under scanner as people demand ACB enquiry on funds used on Poonch fort

Poonch Tourism department under scanner as people demand ACB enquiry on funds used on Poonch fort

POONCH TODAY NEWS

POONCH: As the matter of brazen misuse of funds on Poonch fort, which was declared as a protected monument, raised many time, but no action has been taken yet by the government. Reportedly, several crores were spent on paper, but their utilization on ground has raised a suspicion as majority of work which was carried out till now, was without any proper planning. Sources said that only few contractor’s were  given out of the way benefit with the help of officials of Tourism Department. Earlier, in response to a RTI, Tourism department claimed that nearly 4 crore was spent on renovation of Poonch fort. Even the precious wood worth several lacs was reportedly taken out by those at helm  over the years. Even a retired Chief Executive officer of Poonch Development Authority looted funds meant for renovation of Poonch fort like anything. These days, a renovation work from back side is going on in full swing,  but locals have raised their eyebrows that why government is spending huge money unnecessary when inner side of Poonch fort was not taken up first. They alleged that Tourism department officials and executing agencies seem to have  a high profile nexus to earn through foul means. They said that tax payers money is being thrown openly and public demand an enquiry from ACB to bring to book those officials and executing agencies who played this open fraud with the people of Poonch.