Public works hit as Bhumi Centre not restored

The public works have come to a standstill at Bhumi Centre in the taluk centre for the past two months after the fire mishap.

On September 29, computer, printer and batteries were gutted, allegedly due to improper electrical wiring.

A loss of Rs 5 lakh has been estimated and there is a need for total maintenance. The taluk panchayat tahsildar had written to the deputy commissioner on October 1, requesting for proper facilities to be provided towards the restoration of Bhumi Centre.

PWD electrical subdivision executive engineer, Shivamogga, has submitted an estimate towards works amounting to Rs 13 lakh. UPS, air conditioning, new wiring and other related works have also been mentioned in the estimate.

But, as the grant is not available, the repair work has not been taken up. Currently, only RTC copies are provided at Bhumi Centre and many other works are getting delayed as the biometric system and internet is having issues.

An official said that the electrical wiring could be done at Rs 1.5 lakh for the time being. The release of more grant is unlikely.

The public opined that electric connection should be provided to carry out important works.