PESHAWAR: Serious irregularities have emerged in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Rs33 billion free solar energy project, raising concerns over transparency and procurement.
Official documents reveal the per-unit cost remains at Rs204,000 despite changes to the original plan. Experts argue the actual cost should not exceed Rs140,000, pointing to possible overpricing.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (KPPRA) labeled the tendering process as \”mis-procurement.\” Authorities awarded 18 out of 20 packages to a single bidder without competition, while ignoring a lower bid from another company for two packages in Hazara Division.
Officials removed a chief engineer who opposed the inclusion of a costly “All-in-ine” solar solution, which only one company supplies in Pakistan. Nearly all bidders offered the same brand, suggesting pre-selection or limited access.
Watchdogs and stakeholders are demanding a full audit and independent inquiry to ensure accountability and transparency.