PESHAWAR: Irfan Saleem, President of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Peshawar, has accused large-scale irregularities in development funds in the city.
He stated that during both the former and current PTI governments, not a single rupee reached local representatives, while billions were allegedly embezzled through collusion with contractors.
He claimed that approximately Rs1.7 billion were released without any tenders, NIT approvals, or KAPRA clearance. Saleem said that two contractors are allegedly dominating Peshawar, and it is unclear where the funds are going.
Speaking to this correspondent, he said that the funds allocated to MPAs are supposed to be spent on various schemes through the DC office. However, according to Saleem, no development work has taken place in Peshawar, despite the release of Rs170 million. He added that money was spent on fake projects and was allegedly pocketed in full.
In response to a question, he said that there have been major irregularities in the Sustainable Development Funds and District Development Funds. Saleem stated while respecting party discipline, he wanted to inform the party leadership that these funds were mismanaged on a large scale. He demanded a transparent investigation to determine where the funds were spent and for what purpose.
According to officials, these schemes include construction and repair of roads in city and suburban union councils, paving of streets, building drainage systems and culverts, construction of sidewalks, cleanliness and sanitation projects, restoration of graveyards and community centers, water supply schemes, and other basic facilities. In several areas, social welfare initiatives are also included. The total cost of these projects is reported at 170 million rupees, with allocations ranging from 5 million to Rs50 million for different schemes.
Responding to the allegations, Provincial Minister for Local Government Meena Khan said that if Irfan Saleem has any evidence, he should submit it for action. He added that if Saleem has any concerns and believes corruption has occurred, he can also file a formal complaint.
Meena Khan emphasised that the provincial government and PTI are strictly implementing a zero-tolerance policy on corruption and will not allow anyone to misappropriate public funds. He also noted that MPA funds are released through various departments and are fully monitored.
