JOIN USDevelopment authority in slumber
Kolar Urban Development Authority (KUDA) was formed in the year 1992, about 17 years ago. The City had not developed much then, and hence there were ample opportunities to chalk out measures for planned development of the City.
At its birth, the Authority took up the ambitious project of developing the Tamaka extension. The site-aspirant public evinced interest in the project and even deposited the requisite sum. A huge function was organised in Chennaiah Rangamandira and the allottees were selected through lottery, in the presence of the legislator and the Deputy Commissioner.
Incomplete work
Unfortunately, the Tamaka Extension has yet to develop as a full-fledged residential layout. The area, which should have been a symbol of development, still lacks proper road and drainage. Though huge water tanks punctuate the area, there is no water in them. People are hesitant to reside in the area that lacks basic amenities.
On the other hand, the Authority has no building of its own till date. Functioning from a rented building, the office wears a deserted look, bereft of the usual activity witnessed in any other government office. The Authority has a Commissioner and a Second Division Assistant for his help. The rest of the staff have been deputed to other departments.
The Authority is also mired in allegations of misuse of government funds. The audit report for 1997-98 cites failure to obtain prior permission from Bescom for installation of streetlights in the layout, not fixing the initial payment and installments towards sale price of the sites and not maintaining separate records.
Meanwhile, the Authority took up its second project - development of Kodikannur layout, in the year 2000.
However, it is unable to utilise the lands acquired from farmers for the designated purpose. The site-aspiring public had displayed their enthusiasm this time too. But the dispute over payment of compensation for land acquisition dashed their dreams. Following this, the Authority is now without any job.
Inquiry
Following money misuse allegation by a member of the public, the government had appointed the Deputy Commissioner in 2002 to look into the charges. There are neither any indication of the Authority taking up new projects in the near future.
It is also being said that the government is planning to shut down the Authority and shift it to Malur, which is competing with Kolar in terms of expansion.
However, the Urban Development Authority, if found to be essential for the development of the City, needs to be retained by infusing fresh life.