University paid for unfinished water project, Peru's Comptroller alerts

The National University of Jaén in Cajamarca, Peru, is under scrutiny by the Comptroller General's Office for alleged irregularities in a S/17.2 million water and sewage expansion project. The project, intended to benefit 2,669 students, has drawn criticism for alleged payments made for work that was not fully completed.

A control visit report, conducted between May 6 and 22, indicated that the university may have paid in full for certain work sections, even when some tasks were not executed or only partially advanced. These included carpentry, flooring, and reservoir accessories.

Further concerns were raised about the project's structural integrity. The Comptroller's office observed deflection points in the reinforced concrete cistern's slab, leading to water accumulation. This situation poses a risk of leaks, progressive deterioration, and steel corrosion, potentially shortening the infrastructure's lifespan and compromising its quality.

The university has been notified of these findings and is expected to implement corrective and preventive measures to ensure the project's proper execution. The Comptroller's office is closely monitoring the situation.