24 Aug 2024,Kathmandu

In a growing scandal within the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), critical files and reports from the investigation committee have reportedly disappeared, raising concerns about corruption and mismanagement.

Nepal Electricity Authority Scandal

Deputy Executive Director Manoj Silwal, who has withheld the investigation report for an extended period, is now at the center of the controversy surrounding the disappearance of electrical equipment worth NPR 140 million from the central store under the Distribution and Customer Service Directorate.

According to the NEA’s financial administration regulations, Silwal is responsible for the misappropriation. However, sources indicate that the blame has been deflected onto the then-head of the store, Buddha Karki. Allegations against Silwal include the unauthorized removal of investigation files related to various incidents of missing steel poles and other equipment from regional offices, including Nepalgunj, Rukum West, Kavre, and Jaleshwar.

Silwal is also accused of engaging in unnecessary procurement, such as purchasing transformers worth over NPR 6 billion, which have been left unused and may incur additional costs for repairs due to expired warranties. As Silwal’s retirement in January 2081 approaches, there are concerns that he is attempting to amass wealth through corrupt practices. His close ties with Bechan Jha, linked to the refugee issue, and his aspirations to become the Executive Director of the NEA have further fueled the controversy.

The Public Procurement Monitoring Office has criticized the NEA’s procurement procedures, describing them as among the worst. Complaints about the authority’s procurement practices are reportedly frequent, highlighting the widespread issues within the organization. As investigations continue, the extent of the alleged corruption and mismanagement remains to be seen.

Nepal Electricity Authority Scandal