Work on footpath, drains delayed in Hubli-Dharwad

Work on footpath, drains delayed in Hubli-Dharwad
The Hindu

HUBLI: The construction of footpaths and drains, which the Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation had begun immediately after the demolition drive, is being delayed because of an alleged nexus among some contractors.

The corporation, after the demolition drive, chalked out an action plan involving an expenditure of Rs. 5 crores for the construction of footpaths, drains and widening of roads.

It even had mobilised funds for the work covering 24 roads in the twin cities.

The action plan included footpath and other related works which were taken up by some contractors on request by the corporation immediately after the demolition drive.

But now except the works that started immediately after the demolition drive, most of which have been completed, no other beautification work has been taken up so far because of the alleged nexus among some contractors.

As works worth Rs. 1.5 crores have begun, the corporation has called for tenders for the remaining works under the action plan and the tendering process is to have been completed by the end of this month.

Immediately after the tenders were finalised, the corporation planned to issue work orders with a condition that it should be completed within one and half month. But that has been ruled out with the corporation officials smelling a rat in the tendering process. Although the contractors submitted their bids in time, the high rates quoted by some and the lack of requisite documents and other related issues have made the officials suspect foul play.

Under the circumstances, the corporation either has to finalise the bids with high rates or call for fresh tenders.

"Going by what has happened it seems that there is some sort of secret understanding between the contractors. The corporation will not give any scope for anybody to indulge in unfair practices in the works involving public money. If it is found that there has been foul play, we will call for fresh tenders," said P. Manivannan, corporation Commissioner.

Now it appears that the corporation may call for fresh tenders in connection with the remaining works under the action plan. And, in that case the process of the roads getting a facelift will be delayed. But there are not many who are complaining.