ACB launches probe into alleged corruption in Srinagar smart city project

Srinagar :- The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) of Jammu and Kashmir has initiated two preliminary enquiries into suspected irregularities in the Srinagar Smart City Project, highlighting concerns over material misappropriation and quality compromise.

The first enquiry (PE No.01/2025) focuses on the alleged misappropriation of construction materials, including Devari Stones, Path Tiles, and Iron Grills, which were meant for the city’s revamp and beautification efforts. According to the ACB’s statement, these materials were reportedly either unaccounted for or sold in the open market for personal profit instead of being properly stored in the engineering division’s facilities.In a parallel investigation, the ACB has registered a second preliminary enquiry (PE No.02/2025) concerning the use of substandard materials in the development work along Foreshore Road Nishat.

The project in question includes the construction of a cycle track, footpath facing Dal Lake, and viewing decks stretching from Nishat to Naseem Bagh Public Health Centre. The investigation has revealed that officers and officials of Srinagar Smart City Ltd., allegedly working in collaboration with a contractor, deliberately bypassed mandatory procedures, potentially compromising the quality of the construction work.The ACB’s statement confirms that investigations into both preliminary enquiries are currently ongoing, suggesting a thorough examination of these allegations that could have significant implications for the Smart City Project’s implementation and oversight.