Cuttack: The Orissa High Court today expressed anguish over the deplorable road and drainage condition in Cuttack city and directed the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC), the Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO), and the Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) to expedite the work keeping in view the public inconvenience.
Taking suo moto cognizance of the poor conditions of the roads and drains, the court pulled up the three parties over the timeline given for the completion of works.
“This Court, taking into consideration the inconvenience caused to the public at large, is of the view that the timeline cannot be fixed at the sweet will of the authority concerned rather they should expedite the work,” read the judgment delivered by a bench comprising acting Chief Justice B R Sarangi and justice M S Raman.
While observing the affidavit filed by the City Engineer, CMC an imaginary one, the bench directed him to appear in person on the next date to give an explanation.
Similarly, the Superintending Engineer, (R & B) Division, Cuttack and the General Manager, WATCO (Sewerage) along with the General Manager, WATCO (Drainage) have been directed to remain present on the next date.
The General Manager of Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL), who is laying underground gas pipelines will also appear personally on the next date.
The Court posted the matter to October 13 for the next hearing.
Advocate Debasis Nayak appeared for CMC while P. K. Bhuyan was present on behalf of WATCO. Sailaza Nandan Das argued on behalf of OWS & SB.
Click below to read the High Court order
