Mangaluru: As there have been allegations that members of the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) are not aware of the development works under the ‘smart city’ project, the district administration is planning to set up a separate website which would comprise of all the details about the project, progress of the work, the total amount earmarked for the same etc.
Dakshina Kannada district Deputy Commissioner Sasikanth Senthil revealed this plan during a meeting convened exclusively for discussing the smart city project, organised at the Mangala auditorium in the MCC on Monday, October 29. The meeting was convened as there was a complaint from the MCC members that they are sidelined while taking up smart city projects.
DC Senthil clarified that only eight wards of the MCC will see smart city projects as focus will be laid on area-based development. ”As the smart city project is different from all the other projects, members should understand why some unique works will be undertaken under this project,” he said. He also informed that the focus would be on the development of the old port, fishing harbour along the waterfront in the city.
Meanwhile, some members have questioned the move of distancing the MCC members while taking decisions on various developmental works under the smart city project. They also sought to clarify whether the opinions of members would be considered while taking up a new project. In response, the DC informed that the separate website would include all details of the project as well as other updates. There is also an opportunity for the members and the public to give their opinion and suggestions, he added.
During the meeting, corporator A C Vinayraj suggested taking up those projects which create job opportunities.
Another corporator, Roopa D Bangera questioned why the roads which are already developed being undertaken as ‘smart roads’ as it is a sheer waste of money. She also questioned the move of setting up six smart bus stands under the smart city project.
Replying to this, the DC said, “There are certain guidelines for undertaking development works under the smart city project. The smart roads and smart bus stands will be shaped in a different way and it will be incorporated with unique features.”
MCC Mayor Bhaskar K, Deputy Mayor Mohammed K, Commissioner Mohammed Nazeer were among those present.
