Aam Aadmi Party Demands Investigation into Yemmekere Swimming Pool Construction
The Mangaluru branch of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has formally urged the government to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged design flaws, increased expenditure, and financial losses incurred by the state exchequer during the construction of the Yemmekere Swimming Pool. This call for scrutiny comes amid growing concerns over the project's execution and financial management.
Allegations of Cost Escalation and Rule Violations
AAP district organising secretary SL Pinto addressed reporters on Tuesday, revealing that the Yemmekere swimming pool was developed at a substantial cost of Rs 24.9 crore under the Smart City project. According to Pinto, the AAP Mangaluru research team has identified several critical issues, including excessive cost escalation, discrepancies in procurement, and violations of established rules during the construction phase.
Pinto elaborated on specific concerns, stating, "The structure was raised above ground level, which necessitated extensive piling work, leading to additional and excessive costs. Furthermore, higher-than-market rates were quoted for essential components such as underwater LED lights, other LED lighting systems, and pool filters. Notably, despite these inflated costs, no underwater lights have been installed to date."
He also highlighted that despite these apparent shortcomings, the government has proceeded to hand over the maintenance of the facility to a private company, raising questions about accountability and oversight.
Call for Lokayukta Intervention and Community Benefits
In response to these findings, AAP state vice-president Vivekananda Salins announced that the party will shortly submit a formal complaint to the Lokayukta, detailing the flaws in the construction process. This move aims to ensure an independent investigation into the alleged irregularities and hold responsible parties accountable.
Salins further urged the authorities to implement measures that benefit the local community, specifically calling for free training and concessional passes to be offered to government school students at the swimming pool. This proposal seeks to make the facility more accessible and serve as a resource for youth development in the region.
The AAP's demands underscore a broader push for transparency and efficiency in public infrastructure projects, particularly those funded under initiatives like the Smart City project. As the situation develops, stakeholders await the government's response to these allegations and the potential outcomes of the proposed inquiry.
