572 projects under MPLADS still incomplete

As many as 572 development works to be carried out in the PM’s constituency under the Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) remain incomplete despite availability of funds. Most of these projects include road repair, installation of hand pumps, solar lights among other things.

This is the case when list of development works was timely submitted by local MP Narendra Modi, also the prime minister of the country, and fund for the same was released timely for both years: 2014-15 and 2015-16. First instalment of MPLADS funds for 2016-17 has also been made available.

Under the scheme, MPs are allotted Rs 5 crore each to carry out development works in their constituencies every year through the district magistrate.

Sources in the district administration said ‘lackadaisical’ approach of officials was responsible for the undue delay in completion of the projects.

Around a week back, divisional commissioner Nitin Ramesh Gokarn reprimanded lethargic officials during a review meeting.

He expressed his anger to rural engineering services (RES) executive engineer, urban development department officials and Jal Nigam officials for delay in the completion of the projects. He asked the officials to mend their ways and complete the projects on time or else be ready to face action.

The commissioner said, “Officials associated with implementation of the projects have been instructed to complete all 572 works by May 15. If they fail to meet the deadline, strict action will be ensured against them on May 16. Any dereliction will not be tolerated.”

Ever since Yogi Adityanathled BJP government came to power in the state, the authorities concerned have been instructed to speed up development work here.