MLC LAMBASTS OFFICIALS;

Madikeri June 8, 2006

MLC Arun machaiah addressed a village development meeting near Virajpet and alleged that the official delay is hampering the development of the district.

Continuing his talk in Maggula village yesterday, he lambasted the officials and said that lakhs of rupees sanctioned for the development was returned, as the funds could not be utilized on time. He alleged that rupees 440 lakhs out of the 910 lakhs meant for the development of roads in the district was returned and rupees rupees 88 lakhs released for the development of Makutta road remains unspent due to official lathery and irresponsibility.

He assured that he will appeal to the chief minister to release rupees 20 crore for the development of district roads during next season. He regretted that a pre independent bridge at Nellihudikeri still not replaced. Though the work had begun, materials are wasted due to delay he said.

Arun machaiah opined that the funds and grants for the development of the district would be hit further if the Nanjudappa report is implemented. He ridiculed the report stating that it was unscientifically prepared not considering Kodagu as a Malnad zone.

POLICE TO CURB BORDER CRIMES;

Superintendent of Police, P.Ramacahandra Rao told at Virajpet that border crimes like smuggling of forest wealth, transportation of Cows would be tackled on priority.

Addressing a people – Police meeting, he said that police are initiating different tactics to curb border crime.

Addressing the audience, he said that illegal activities and thefts being reported in Virajpet town will also be thwarted. He also called upon the people to co operate with police. Chamber of commerce president Kashi Uthappa welcomed the new SP. People presented their views on the law and order situation.

FIFTEEN INCHES MORE RAINFALL;

The district has received fifteen inches more rainfall till yesterday, compared to last year.

An official information disclosed that the district had received only 8.24 inches of rainfall during last year. Whereas, it has recorded 23.81 inches this year, till yesterday.

Madikeri recorded a high of 30.98 inches so far against last years 5.74 inches.Somwarpet registered 16.65 inches against 9.55 inches of last year. Virajpet recorded 23.80 inches against 9.43 inches.