Jajarkot, December 30

The misuse of government vehicles has emerged as a major problem and is on the rise in Jajarkot of late, thanks to the apathy of the concerned authorities.

Stakeholders said the vehicles granted by the government for official use are being used for personal reasons. “The government vehicles are often seen carrying the families of government officials to some private or personal programmes like weddings, picnics, fairs and feasts,” said stakeholders.

A few months ago, the ambulance of Jajarkot District Health Office was being used to ferry staff members and run personal errands until it broke down. The vehicle is now stored at some garage for repairs. Similarly, three motorbikes of the office are also being used to run personal errands of the employees here.

Locals rued the ongoing irregularities as well as the nonchalant attitude of the monitoring authorities. “Vehicles of mainly DDC, Education and Health offices are being misused. However the police and concerned administration turn a blind eye to the unscrupulous behaviour,” said civil society leader Rajendra Bikram Shah.

DHO chief Dr Rajendra GC admitted the misuse of vehicles at his office. “I admit that government vehicles are being misused. So far, they have ignored my calls, so now there is no option but to take action,” he said.

CDO Janardan Gautam claimed that his office was investigating and taking action against the persons misusing office vehicles for personal purposes. “I have already issued strong directives against the misuse. I am committed to curb the practice by securing cooperation from all stakeholders,” he said.