Minister Orders Investigation into Abandoned Sewerage Project
The Deputy Minister for Water, Eng Kundo Mathew, has directed a formal investigation into the Chato District sewerage project after complaints that the contractor, Peritus Exim Private Limited, abandoned the work. The directive signals a strong move from central government toward contractor accountability and safeguarding public resources allocated to essential infrastructure.
The decision comes amid rising concerns about delays and possible mismanagement in one of the district’s most critical sanitation projects. Local residents have faced ongoing service gaps while the project remains incomplete, underscoring the urgency of a transparent inquiry and accountability measures. The ministry has indicated that if evidence confirms missteps or negligence, appropriate action will be taken to protect public funds and the community’s interests.
What the Probe Aims to Uncover
The investigation will assess several key areas, including adherence to contract terms, project milestones, financial disbursements, and the reasons behind any suspension of construction activities. Specific focus centers on whether Peritus Exim Private Limited fulfilled technical specifications, maintained safety standards, and complied with environmental regulations during the project lifecycle.
Investigators are expected to examine contract amendments, payment schedules, and correspondence between the contractor and provincial authorities. The probe will also look into whether delays were due to external factors such as funding gaps, supply chain disruptions, or internal project management challenges, and whether interim measures were implemented to mitigate damage to residents’ access to sanitation services.
Impact on Local Communities and Accountability
Chato District residents have endured extended periods without reliable sewerage services as the project stalled. The ministry’s move to initiate an inquiry is seen as a step toward restoring trust by ensuring that responsibilities are clearly defined and that any breach of contract is addressed through proper channels.
Observers say the investigation could set a precedent for how future public works contracts are monitored and enforced. Civil society groups have advocated for greater transparency, timely progress updates, and stronger penalties for contractors who abandon critical infrastructure projects. The ministry’s commitment to accountability could also influence how financing is structured for similar schemes, potentially incorporating tighter milestones and performance-based releases of funds.
Next Steps and Oversight
While the inquiry is underway, government officials have hinted at interim measures to safeguard the project’s assets and to ensure that essential sanitation services are not disrupted further. Depending on the findings, actions may include contract renegotiations, penalties, or the re-tendering of the project to a more suitable and reliable firm.
The Deputy Minister has urged patience from the public as investigators gather evidence, conduct interviews, and review documentation. Updates are expected to be shared with local leaders and residents to maintain transparency throughout the process.
