Though mini Vidhan Soudha has been constructed in the newly carved districts in the state, Kodagu district has not yet got one. Though money is being released for the construction of buildings, owing to the scarcity of land, even foundation stone could not be laid for the government buildings. In this background, the newly built RTO office on Abbey falls road in Madikeri has become much discussed issue. Transport Commissioner has assured to hand over the building for other purpose, if district administration agrees with it.

There is truth in Transport Commissioner’s statement. Even for small work, one has to spend Rs 100 to reach RTO office. The new building will cause inconvenience to the public rather than helping them.

If the authorities had taken suitable decision prior to the construction of the building, then all the confusion would have been solved. The new building is situated five kilometres away from the city. Half of the building is ready. No government offices will be ready to move to the new RTO building without proper transport facility. Though many departments are in dire need of new building, they may not shift to the new RTO building. In this background, the work on new RTO office building is moving in a snail’s pace. Rs 70 lakh required for the completion of the building. Owing to the economic crisis, government is even lagging behind in collecting tax. As a result, the funds will be released only after the next budget. As Kodagu will receive rains in June, the work on the building is likely to be delayed.

Though government has announced Rs one crore for the development of General Thimmaiah’s house (present RTO office), grants have not been released so far. As a result, the work on the development of General Thimmaiah Memorial has not yet started. In the meantime, Transport Minister had announced that the department has no objection, if the RTO office is shifted in case of delay in the completion of new RTO building.

Some of the projects in the districts are out of track owing to the lack of will power among elected representatives and officials.