Cracks in the Cluny Reservoir: CWA Dismisses Executive Engineer

The alleged misconduct spans from October 2021 to June 2023. Such a sanction is exceptional within the CWA, where professional failings typically result in suspensions or disciplinary measures, and only rarely in immediate dismissal.

According to the findings of the disciplinary committee, the engineer failed in his duty of care and oversight, compromising compliance with contractual requirements as well as the safety of the structure. The committee highlighted in particular the failure to follow recommendations set out in the geotechnical report, especially those relating to the reservoir’s foundations. He is also accused of not verifying the backfilling of cavities identified on site before allowing works to continue.

The disciplinary committee further noted the absence of oversight of the reinforcement schedule, which the engineer should have required from the contractor and verified prior to major concrete pours. Additional non-compliances were identified in the quality of the concrete used, with Grade 35 applied instead of the contractually specified Grade 35A. Another technical anomaly concerned the diameter of the water level indicator, which was set at 50 mm rather than the 110 mm stipulated in the contract.

Beyond technical issues, the committee also pointed to several administrative irregularities. Vinobha Boodhun allegedly certified a payment of Rs 18,000 for photographs listed in the Bill of Quantities, even though this service was never carried out by the contractor. The committee also noted that the engineer failed to require the submission of “as-built” drawings—documents essential for traceability and future maintenance of the reservoir.

In light of the seriousness and cumulative nature of these failings, the disciplinary committee concluded that Vinobha Boodhun acted in breach of his duty of loyalty and trust toward the CWA. Contrary to standard practice, which favors intermediate sanctions, immediate dismissal was deemed necessary.

The supervising minister, Patrick Assirvaden, has made it clear that he will not tolerate any form of negligence in the management of CWA projects. He reiterated that all employees are required to strictly comply with contractual and technical obligations, particularly when it comes to strategic infrastructure linked to the supply of drinking water.

By way of background, following an internal investigation by the CWA, seven individuals—including senior managers, engineers, and officers—were implicated in the Cluny reservoir case. The report, submitted on 22 July 2025, led to the suspension of four engineers, while three others are required to account for their actions before CWA management. The case has also been referred to the Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) to assess potential criminal or financial liability. Sotravic, the company responsible for the works, will also be summoned. The project, launched in January 2021, involved the construction of a 3,000 m³ reservoir in Cluny and a reinforced 2,000 m³ reservoir in Eau-Bleue, at a cost of Rs 74 million.

Works began in October 2021 and experienced multiple delays, with completion pushed back to September 2023. Defects were first reported in March 2023 and later confirmed during subsequent inspections. In January 2025, more than 25 cracks were identified, leading to the decision to demolish the structure.