Post News Network
Cuttack, Feb 16: Lack of electronic goods in the storehouse of Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) has left many city streets in the dark.
Badambadi Square is a case in point. The square, which is the city’s busiest area, has been plunged into darkness for the last 15 days because of the lackadaisical attitude of the civic body in illuminating it. This inordinate delay in illuminating the streets is causing a lot of concern among residents who pointed out that Badambadi Square has witnessed a spurt in criminal activities. The areas that lack illumination also include Mahanadi Ring Road, Mahanadi Barrage Road and the road connecting Jobra and Sikharpur.
CMC had procured electronic goods worth `70 lakh for illumination of 59 wards during Dussehra, according to sources. CMC had used almost all the goods within two months of their purchase. Now, the civic body is reeling under a severe shortage of electronic gadgets. Besides, the storehouse does not even have bulbs. CMC’s failure to procure the required material has invited flak from all and sundry. Corporator Dharmananda Patra said `15 lakh was spent on the illumination of the road connecting Badambdi and Madhupatna. The project was inaugurated October 1, 2012. However, the road presents a sorry picture. CMC is yet to take steps for illuminating the road.
CMC commissioner Gyana Das said the energy department has been directed to probe the Badambadi road issue. Tenders will be invited for the procurement of electronic goods soon.
