Jairam Alleges Irregularities in Finna Singh Irrigation Project Tendering
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Shimla, 22 June 2025 — Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur has accused the Himachal Pradesh government of manipulating the tendering process of the Centre-funded Finna Singh Irrigation Project, potentially causing a loss of crores to the state exchequer. He alleged that by barring joint ventures, the state has sidelined many reputed companies, reducing competition and inflating bid prices.
Thakur pointed out that tenders for ₹297 crore have been awarded at higher bids, around ₹304 crore, despite the possibility of awarding them at 25–30% lower rates, which could have saved the state ₹75–90 crore. He also expressed concern that companies being favoured by the government have no prior experience in dam construction. He urged the government to halt the tender process, review conditions, remove clauses benefiting select firms, and reissue a globally competitive tender.
The ₹284 crore Finna Singh project, approved under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana, will benefit over 60 villages by irrigating 4025 hectares in Suliali region. Jai Ram Thakur demanded transparency and accountability in handling this vital agricultural infrastructure project.
