Kochi: The Kochi corporation council meeting on Friday failed to take a decision on submitting Rs 1 crore bank guarantee, stipulated by the High Court while issuing stay on the National Green Tribunal (NGT) order on Brahmapuram waste treatment plant. While staying the NGT directive for two months, the HC asked the civic body to submit Rs.1 crore as bank guarantee with Central and State Pollution Control Boards within three weeks.
The opposition played strategically seeking voting on the topic, realizing that the ruling bench was not having adequate number of members when the matter came for discussion. As mayor Soumini Jain refused to put the agenda for voting, Opposition members created noisy scenes and obstructed council proceedings.
Replying to the debate, Ms Jain said since much confusion remain on the NGT order, a special council session will be convened this month itself on the topic.
“The mayor’s undemocratic approach can’t be justified, said V.P. Chandran, CPM parliamentary party leader. “Even if a single member demanded voting, the mayor has to comply with it. She can’t unilaterally decide on it.”
According to Opposition leader K.J Antony, the additional financial burden was caused to the cash strapped local body only because of the negligent and irresponsible attitude of the council.
As Opposition members started sloganeering, the mayor adjourned the session announcing all other items in the agenda passed.
The NGT had slapped fine of Rs 1 crore for the inordinate delay in setting up a leachet plant .Meanwhile, the council approved the request for road cutting for pipeline laying submitted by Indian Oil-Adani Gas Private Limited for city gas project.
