Sambalpur: The construction of the IDCO tower allotted to Sambalpur district has not started so far although the project was cleared in 2013. Former Collector Balwant Singh planned to begin its construction in 2013.
Six years have passed since then, but construction of the tower has not begun. In these six years, two Collectors had been appointed in the district and the tenure of an MLA ended.
Locals said it is the ignorance of bureaucrats and political leaders that blocked the project.
Sources said the district administration had decided to demolish the Mahanadi Club and construct the tower there but due to protests it could not be done.
Later, a government plot was identified by the side of NH-55. The Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO) has already paid Rs 20,76,000 as revenue to the government for the land.
All procedures for construction of the tower have been completed but due to administrational apathy construction has not started yet.
The people of Sambalpur can benefit from this project directly and indirectly, sources added. Burla is an educational city. Leading institutes like VSSUT, VIMSAR and IIM are present in Burla. Construction of the IDCO tower will attract both parents and students as students will get placements in both private and public companies.
The IDCO had plans to construct a world class conference hall in the tower which will help educational institutions, public and private sector firms to conduct meetings.
The government had approved Rs 60 crore for construction of the building. An eight-floored tower will be constructed by the authority with underground parking facility.
IDCO officer Girija Sankar Nayak said all procedures for construction of the project have been completed. Once we get orders we will start construction of the building, he added.
Collector Subham Saxsena said, “We will discuss with the department secretary and take steps accordingly.”
Sambalpur MLA Jay Narayan Mishra said, “There will be no delay in constructing the tower.” Construction will start soon, he added.
PNN