Thiruvananthapuram: The Public Works Department is dissatisfied with the Uralungal Labor Society. Minister Mohammad Riyaz’s public criticism of the construction of Shankhumukham Road is only a hint. The Public Works Department is of the view that it will not approve any arrogance in the support of a senior official in the Chief Minister’s Office.
This is the first time such a public criticism of Uralungal has come from a minister. Criticism has been leveled at the Shankhumukham road, which was damaged in the floods. Mohammad Riyaz had exploded after Uralungal sent a junior officer to a meeting he had called the previous day to resolve the issue. The minister lost control when the officer who came did not have an accurate report. Riyaz asked if top officials would attend the meeting only if there was a prime minister or chief minister. He warned that he would not look into such carelessness. The ad response behind this makes it clear that the problem is not small. The tough stance of the minister will also affect the officials. The latest developments come as contracts for most major projects are being awarded to Uralungal.
It is alleged that Uralungal benefited from his association with the CM’s office and the employment of several leaders’ close relatives. In Riyaz’s words, there is no compromise on such relationships. The estimated cost of Shankhumukham Road was Rs. 3,82,96610. The project was taken over by Uralungal for an additional 10% of Rs 4,21,26271. It was also suggested that additional work be undertaken in a video conference called by the Secretary of Public Works on September 30, 2020. Work began without even waiting for the revised estimate to be approved. In the Government order dated January 12, it was renewed to the tune of `8 crore and 5 lakhs. Later, the minister was angered by the delay in construction. Since the criticism is against Uralungal, further moves are also likely.
English Summary: Minister Mohammed Riyas slams Uralungal Society
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