Govt launches probe into Jagananna housing scandal

To address the widespread allegations of substandard construction, the State government has initiated an investigation into the Jagananna housing programme. The project, established during the previous administration, has come under scrutiny following a flood of complaints about poor-quality construction carried out by unauthorised contractors.
The inquiry reveals alarming irregularities in the housing projects under the Jagananna colonies initiative. Reports from Visakhapatnam district indicate that construction standards were not adhered to, with several houses already showing signs of deterioration. Issues such as compromised foundations, particularly during recent floods, and the use of substandard cement bricks have emerged. Despite these serious concerns, housing authorities appear to have neglected their oversight duties.
Over one lakh houses were planned across 73 layouts during the YCP government’s tenure, but these projects, which began two years ago, have been marred by delays and deficiencies. Notably, colonies in Sabbavaram mandal—Paidivada Agraharam, Gangavaram, and Nanginarapadu—are experiencing visible decay, with infrastructure suffering due to inadequate construction practices.