Here is a classic example of red-tapism depriving a school of mineral water plant facility.
The indifferent attitude of Vijayawada Municipal Corporation officials has deprived the schoolchildren of mineral water in Kandirka despite a philanthropist came forward to help them. A city based businessman Ch. Mallikarjuna Rao sought permission from the VMC officials to permit him to install a mineral water plant in the B.V. Subba Reddy Municipal Corporation Elementary School in July last. Since then, he ran from pillar to post to secure permission. But, the VMC officials had not responded to his request, nor constructed a room to set up the water treatment plant. And, finally fed up with the “indifference attitude”, he shelved his proposal.
When contacted, Mr. Mallkarjuna Rao said, “I was ready to invest Rs. 50,000 to set up a plant that can treat 100 litres per hour. But, the officials have not responded despite repeated visits and requests.” The only request was to provide a room, which would not cost more than Rs. 25,000, to set up the plant. Disgusted over their attitude, I stopped pursuing the proposal,” he added.
The CPI (M) State Committee member Ch. Babu Rao said the VMC was only interested in handing over the water supply to private agencies. Had it been sincere, about 1,000 children studying in both elementary and high school would have been benefited. It is unfortunate that the VMC did not act even if donors come forward voluntarily. Had the water plant been grounded, it would have helped the people in vicinity also, he adds.
When contacted Dy. EO Neelima Devi said, “I was appointed just a week ago, and have no knowledge of the proposals. I need little time to look into it.”
