JOIN USEven though three years have passed after the distribution of sites by Town Panchayat at Mahadeshwara Extension, the residents here have been deprived of basic facilities, owing to the neglect of the authorities.
The Town Panchayat had provided title deeds to 134 beneficiaries at Nagarur village, at a land of 3.75 acre. While providing sites, the 10 year- old list was renewed by the Town Panchayat. Organisations had urged for suitable action, claiming that the new list contains more number of rich people than the poor.
The people are not provided proper drinking water, electricity, roads and drainage system so far. Only one system is installed and residents of 60 to 70 houses use the water from this system. The sewage water accumulates in front of the houses as there is no proper UGD facilities. Weeds have grown on the storm water drains. The Panchayat has not taken any initiative to clear them. A water tank built for the purpose of storage water has remained unutilised.
The Town Panchayat has utilised Rs 25 lakh to provide drains and road. But, this has been done only in one part of the extention and the other part is deprived of the amenities. The people had to bring water from a distance of 200 meter.
The previous Town Panchayat administration had identified beneficiaries three years back and had distributed sites. The 11 members of the Panchayat were given the responsibility of identifying a beneficiary each. But, the selection is not said to be transparent. Following the controversy, houses have not been built at more than 50 sites. Some members are also accused of claiming the sites in others names and selling them at double the rates.
Though it has been clearly mentioned in the RTC that the sites availed by the Town Panchayat should not be transferred, rented, leased or sold till 15 years, the rule has been flouted. Also, the rule that the house should be built within two years of the allocation of sites, has not been followed. The sole purpose of provide house to the poor has been lost and the Town Panchayat is responsible for the irregularities.
Town Panchayat Chief Officer Ramesh said that proper facilities will be provided to the sites in coming days. A Rs 90 crore plan has been drawn towards the same. Also basic amenities will be made available. Town Panchayat nominated member B G Indresh said that the former Town Panchayat administration has failed to follow the rules while identifying the beneficiaries. The real beneficiaries have been deprived of sites. The DC should initiate an inquiry following the irregularities.