Date:04/02/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/02/04/stories/2008020453371300.htm

National

Irregularities in J&K quake relief work

Staff Reporter

Jammu: An audit of the relief and rehabilitation work in the earthquake-affected areas of Jammu and Kashmir has reportedly revealed imprudent cash management, excess, undue and irregular payment of relief.

An earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter Scale struck Jammu and Kashmir on October 8, 2005 with around 100 aftershocks, dozens of which measured more than 6 on the Richter scale. Since the epicentre was located near Muzaffarabad area there was extensive damage to life and property in Jammu and Kashmir, especially along the border belt. According to estimates, 970 people were killed and 6,200 injured.

An audit undertaken by the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India, which was presented during the just-concluded Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Budget session, said that payment of Rs.11.06 crore was made to 819 ineligible people.