An avalanche of delayed projects has meant huge cost overruns where the taxpayer is left to foot the bill.

The private sector has been bitterly complaining about the logjam in permissions and approvals, resulting in delayed projects. While private capital has no doubt suffered as have investors, the biggest loser from Government’s delays is perhaps the Government itself. And thus, the taxpayer.

A report prepared by the Government’s Ministry of Programme Planning & Statistics shows that cost over-runs, just for projects with investment outlays of over Rs 1,000 crore, are a staggering Rs 1,00,000 crore or $23 billion. IndiaSpend takes a closer look at the projects and the departments that were responsible. Read more