Srinagar, Feb 27 (KNS): The political interference in the functioning of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation is turning out a major obstacle for the development of the Srinagar city.
This was informed by a senior officer of corporation to KNS, he said, “These political leaders have almost held the entire corporation hostage. Whenever we try to take action against any violator, these politicians back them.”
“Political interference is one of the key reasons of corruption in the civic body and no politician should be allowed to directly influence any official or patronise them. Government has to seriously look into the issue and free civic body of corruption,” they told KNS.
The official accused the elected representatives of giving contracts to their own people.
“When we raise voice, we are being silenced. Otherwise every day we witness how politicians give contracts of different works in Srinagar city to their own people,” he told KNS.
He cited example of various ongoing construction works in city which he said are against the norms.
When KNS raised this issue with SMC Commissioner Gazanfar Ali , he said, “There was lack of coordination between corporate and officials. I am trying to strengthen their synergy. Official and Corporators have different roles. Corporate can raise demands of people; officials have to try to full fill their demands.”
He added that they are trying to make the building permissions hassle-free and transparent.
Regarding the lack of development in Srinagar city, he said, “Funds have been released and we have geared up with all resources to pace up various development projects in Srinagar city”