A major embezzlement scandal involving Rs1.94 billion in the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has led to serious allegations of negligence and misconduct by high-ranking officials over the past nine years and the matter has been handed over to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) for further investigation, with assistance from the Punjab Anti-Corruption Establishment.
The Express Tribune reported that the scandal involves former and current director generals and directors of administration and finance, who had signatory authority over the RDA’s financial affairs. These officials are accused of approving payments to fictitious companies posing as registered vendors.
According to sources, nearly Rs1.94 billion was paid out over the past nine years through Call Deposit Receipts (CDRs), with about 21 transactions involving eight companies and 13 individuals. These financial transactions were made in violation of the RDA’s standard operating procedures (SOPs) for financial dealings.
The signatory authority granted to the director general and director of administration and finance was misused, and bank activity and financial records were not adequately monitored or audited.
NAB has started collecting documents from the RDA and the relevant banks involved, with letters sent to private banks requesting transactional records. Investigations are focused on identifying the officials, fake companies, and individuals responsible for the embezzlement, with legal action expected against those who received the funds, either as company representatives or individuals.
As this investigation unfolds, attention is also on the RDA’s proposed Annual Development Plan (ADP) for fiscal year 2025-26, which is under review by the Punjab government.
The plan includes several major infrastructure projects, such as underpasses, a flyover, a multi-storey parking plaza, and various road schemes, recommended by members of both national and provincial assemblies.
