Thiruvananthapuram: Corp’s ‘shady’ deals under vigilance probe

Thiruvananthapuram: Various schemes and projects rolled out by the City Corporation have come under the vigilance scanner as complaints mount on corruption and shady deals by the ruling front. A quick verification has been launched on the complaint filed by Valiyathura councillor Tony Oliver, who raised heavy corruption charges against civic authorities on the execution of various projects and beneficiary schemes. A vigilance investigation during the time of the local body polls is likely to backfire on the LDF.

Mr Tony Oliver alleged that the works standing committee had undertaken several projects violating the Panchayat Raj Act. “As per the act, the civic body is not authorised to release an additional bill beyond 5 percent for tendered projects. The works standing committee has approved and released additional funds beyond 50 percent upto 200 percent violating the act,” said Mr Tony Oliver. Poojapura Stadium, shopping complex project at Kuravankonkonam, Muttathara school projects are some of the projects that were granted additional funds.

He said that tri-scooters for handicapped were purchased paying 25 percent more. “The authorities could have easily purchased the scooters from here to avoid cost escalation. The two-wheelers were bought from Malappuram paying 25 per cent more which could have been avoided. Bicycles for SC/ST students were bought from a shady company. Also there is widespread corruption in raw material purchase for streetlights,” said Mr Tony Oliver.

He said that low quality tubelight chokes were being purchased at a high price. “Copper chokes are being purchased at Rs 242 and there is no guarantee for the product. While good chokes are available at Rs 110 with 1 year replacement guarantee. Vigilance took my statement and I expect a fair investigation,” said Mr Oliver.