How was ₹800-cr scam undertaken by Tata firm & India’s largest container port’s ex-staff?
In a shocking revelation, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has uncovered a massive scam worth ₹800 crores involving former staff of Tata Consulting Engineers and India’s largest container port, Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPT). The scam, which has been estimated to have caused cumulative losses exceeding ₹4,200 crores, was perpetrated through a series of fraudulent activities, including the use of a deeper vessel draft, single rate for dredging of different rock types, and dredging for excess width.
The scam was uncovered during an investigation into the dredging project undertaken by two contractors, who were hired by JNPT to deepen the channel and widen the approach channel of the port. The project, which was valued at ₹4,500 crores, was aimed at increasing the port’s capacity and efficiency.
However, instead of following the standard procedures and guidelines, the contractors, who were former staff of Tata Consulting Engineers, chose to adopt a different approach. They decided to use a deeper vessel draft of 15 meters instead of the approved 14 meters, which caused a significant loss to the port. The use of a deeper draft resulted in a loss of ₹1,163 crores, as the port had to spend more on dredging and maintenance.
Furthermore, the contractors opted for a single rate for dredging of different rock types, which caused another loss of ₹557 crores. The use of a single rate meant that the contractors were not paying the correct rates for dredging different types of rocks, which resulted in a loss to the port.
In addition to these two losses, the contractors also undertook dredging for excess width, which caused a loss of ₹964 crores. The excess dredging was done without the approval of JNPT, and the contractors were not paid for the excess work done.
The CBI has summoned the contractors and other officials involved in the scam for questioning. The agency has also seized documents and other evidence related to the scam, which is expected to help in the investigation.
The scam has raised several questions about the governance and oversight mechanisms in place at JNPT. The port has been criticized for not having adequate checks and balances in place to prevent such scams. The incident has also raised concerns about the competence and integrity of the contractors and officials involved in the project.
The CBI has also been criticized for not taking action earlier to prevent the scam. The agency was aware of the irregularities in the project, but it failed to take action to prevent the scam.
The scam has also highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in government projects. The project was funded by the government, and the scam has resulted in a significant loss to the exchequer. The incident has also raised concerns about the ability of the government to implement projects effectively and efficiently.
The CBI has said that it has registered a case against the contractors and officials involved in the scam, and that it is investigating the matter further. The agency has also said that it will take all necessary action to recover the losses incurred by JNPT and to punish those responsible for the scam.
In conclusion, the ₹800 crore scam undertaken by Tata firm and India’s largest container port’s ex-staff is a shocking example of the kind of fraud that can occur in government projects. The scam highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in government projects, and the need for effective governance and oversight mechanisms to prevent such scams. The incident also raises concerns about the competence and integrity of the contractors and officials involved in the project, and the ability of the government to implement projects effectively and efficiently.
