PANJIM: The Corporation of City of Panaji (CCP) has rejected the proposal to undertake four projects under AMRUT scheme. The Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) had written to CCP handing over the four completed projects rejuvenation of cluster of lanes of Altinho Steps Phase I and II, refurbishment of existing pedestrian bridge linking central library and creek; and redevelopment and rejuvenation of internal lanes of Mala for maintenance purpose.
Addressing a press conference on Thursday, CCP Mayor Uday Madkaikar informed that they have rejected undertaking the maintenance works of the projects.
“Our engineers along with their engineers visited the sites and we found that the work is incomplete. People have also complained to us about the works. We have orally told them that they never took permission from us when they took up the work so why should we give GSIDC any NOC now? We will not accept White Elephants,” he said.
The CCP has also refused to accept the Miramar-Dona Paula road which was built at a cost of Rs 100 crores but lacks proper drainage. Madkaikar said they have told GSIDC to keep the road in their possession.
As per March 2016 notification, GSIDC has been designated as State Mission Directorate for management and implementation of AMRUT Mission in an efficient manner. In its letter to the CCP Commissioner with a copy to the Mission Director, AMRUT in the office of the Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Corporation, the GSIDC MD Srinet Kotwale had stated, “As per the decision of the State government, the aforesaid works are hereby handed over to your corporation for further maintenance.”
After a hiatus of three years and in view of growing menace of parking in the city, the CCP has decided to restart pay parking from September with a tender notice to be issued shortly. Madkaikar said they would begin the project from two busy roads – 18 June Road and Atmaram Borkar Road along with the parking around Garcia de Orta.
The 18 June Road has parking space for 165 cars while AB Road has for 179, said Madkaikar.
To ensure the project is not ridden into any scam unlike the previous contractor, the CCP Mayor said they have put conditions in the fresh contract which is worth Rs 40 lakh.
“We would seek 50 per cent bank guarantee and security deposit of three months to the CCP, because of the past experience,” the Mayor said, adding, “We will not charge two-wheelers to encourage people to avoid using cars.”
