PURI: The Chairperson of Nabakalebara Infrastructure Development Committee, Maheswar Mohanty on Thursday expressed concern at the execution of drainage work, which has been moving at a snail’s pace in Puri.
While the drainage division had targeted to lay drainage pipes in 60 kms, it has so far covered just 16 kms. The works were supposed to be completed by this month. Earlier, Congress leaders had alleged that none of the drains completed so far are able to expel water from them due to faulty construction, the reason being engagement of unskilled workers.
Mohanty told mediapersons that due to delay in laying of pipes, Works Department has not been able to start road construction work. As many as 20 road stretches in Puri are to be renovated and widened by the Works Department. The chairperson said the drainage division has been allowed four more days to wind up the works so that PWD can begin road construction.
On the other hand, commuters in the city are facing hardship with many roads being dug up for various works including laying underground cables, CCTV cables and drinking water pipelines.
The local civic body is yet to clear encroachments from public places and projects related to drinking water supply are also much behind the schedule.
Locals said lack of coordination among various departments of the Government is likely to mar the prospects of a smooth conduct of the grand fete. Nearly 50 lakh people will congregate in Puri to witness the festival in July. During the festival, old idols of Lord Jagannath and his siblings are replaced with new ones. They alleged that repeated review meetings will not serve any purpose.
Jaundice Cases on the Rise
Six more jaundice patients were admitted to the District Headquarters Hospital here on Thursday. With this, the total number of jaundice affected persons in Puri this year has rose to 91. Besides, 14 more cases have been reported from Puri Sadar area. After two persons succumbed to jaundice in Puri last month, the Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO), Gyanendra Sahu had ordered for collection of water samples. At least 120 water samples were collected and sent to Bhubaneswar for lab test. The reports of tests, which were received on Thursday, revealed high presence of Coliform bacteria in drinking water. On Wednesday, Director (Public Health) had visited the Puri Hospital and expressed dissatisfaction over the treatment being provided to jaundice patients. No separate ward has been set up in the hospital for jaundice patients.