WE THE PEOPLE
SDA has failed to secure planned development of Sgr City due to non-implementation of second Master Plan
Hence it should prepare Divisional/Zonal plans for execution of Projects and follow codal procedures to curb corrupt practices
By: Uzair Khan
Srinagar: In our earlier eight series, we have travelled inside the inner pockets of the Srinagar Development Authority and highlighted its functional mechanism, but it would be appropriate to refresh the memory of our Readers by stating that the Authority was constituted in February, 1971 in pursuance of Section 3(1) of the Jammu and Kashmir Development Act 1970 to promote and secure development of the local area as per the approved Master Plans. The Authority stands vested with the powers to acquire, hold, manage and dispose off land and other property, carryout building and engineering operations and execute allied works. The first Master Plan (1971-91), with a twenty year perspective, was approved in the year 1976. The second Master Plan (2000-2021), prepared in 1999, was approved for implementation by the Government in January 2003. The boundaries of the local, area were increased from 236 to 416 square kilometers for planning under the second Master Plan, covering a population of 23.50 lakh by 2021. But the failure to implement Master Plan of Srinagar City has resulted in its unplanned development. While there was a significant increase in revenue generation from internal resources during 2003-08, but utilization of available resources ranged between 34 and 48 per cent only. Besides works costing Rs. 1.22 crore were got executed by the Authority during 2004-08 without invitation of tenders, in violation of rules.
It has also come to light that National Slum Development Project (NSDP) funds amounting to Rs. 2.43 crore were spent in contravention of scheme guidelines and subsidy for construction of dwelling units under VAMBAY was allowed to non-deserving beneficiaries. Moreover, lack of internal control and monitoring mechanism has resulted in non-realization of Rs. 7.48 crore on account of premia and rent of built-up assets.
The Authority decided in September 2002 to charge Rs. 1,000 each per day an entry fee from two Transport Associations namely Kashmir Motor Drivers Association (KMDA) and Western Bus Stand Union (WBSU) for operating from General Bus Stand, Batmalloo. The revenue so generated was proposed to be utilized for development of the bus stand. The two Associations paid Rs. 3.15 lakh to the Authority till November 2003 and thereafter stopped the payment. Inaction on the part of the Authority to enforce the entry fee agreement resulted in non-recovery of Rs. 36.11 lakh
The Associations continued to operate from the stand and the Authority had spent Rs. 1.44 crore on improvement/upgradation works of the bus stand up to March 2008.
It is to be borne in mind that Financial Rules provide that physical verification of stores be conducted at least once a year and discrepancies, if any, noticed be adjusted in accordance with these rules. But it has been observed that no physical verification of store stands conducted. This is fraught with the risk of pilferage remaining undetected.
The Authority has largely failed to achieve its objective of promoting and securing planned development of the Srinagar City due to non-implementation of the Second Master Plan. Works were executed without ascertaining the reasonability of rates and obtaining AA/TS indicating improper control mechanism and lack of transparency. While the revenue generated from its internal resources has improved over the years, but the Authority has not been able to dispose off its assets to its advantage.
Therefore, the Authority should take immediate steps to prepare divisional/zonal plans for execution of projects as outlined in the approved Master Plan (2000-21).The Authority should finalize its accounts up to date and appoint Statutory Auditors for certification within a specified time frame. Financial management needs to be strengthened and available funds should be utilized for the intended purpose. ______________________________________________(Concluded)
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