Probe Launched into Massive Cost Escalation at Delhi's Lok Nayak Hospital

Lt. Governor VK Saxena approves a CVC probe into a Rs 670 crore cost escalation at Delhi's Lok Nayak Hospital. A committee will review procedural violations and ongoing projects in Delhi hospitals. Health Minister Bharadwaj criticizes constant inquiries. The original tender of Rs 465 crore escalated to Rs 1,135 crore.

Lt. Governor VK Saxena has greenlit a proposal for the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) to investigate a significant cost overrun of Rs 670 crore in the construction of a new block at Delhi's Lok Nayak Hospital. This decision has sparked criticism from Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, who accused Saxena of focusing solely on inquiries.

Saxena also formed a committee to scrutinize procedural lapses that resulted in the cost escalation. The committee, expected to deliver its findings in two months, will also evaluate similar ongoing projects in other Delhi government hospitals.

Initially valued at Rs 465 crore, the project's cost surged to Rs 1,135 crore, creating an unauthorized liability of Rs 670 crore. The Directorate of Vigilance has been instructed to seek a special technical examination from the CVC. The LG highlighted delays and procedural violations, underscoring the need for immediate investigation.

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