Lok Satta seeks cancellation of Vizag library deal

The Lok Satta Party has sought cancellation of the lease given to a private company for reconstruction of the District Central Library building in Visakhapatnam.

In a representation to the Andhra Pradesh Lokayukta, Lok Satta Party Secretary Bhisetty Babji pointed out that Pratyusha Associated Shipping Private Limited which bagged the contract for construction of an integrated commercial complex-cum-library on February 15, 2010 has not begun any work so far. As per the BOT (build, operate, transfer) agreement, the company should have completed the project in 36 months.

The company is now seeking a change in the terms of the contract so that it can profit from the valuable piece of land in the heart of Visakhapatnam.

Mr. Babji said that the Grandhalaya Samstha, which has enough funds, can take up construction of the library-cum-commercial complex on its own and earn huge revenue, instead of choosing to reward a private company.

Mr. Babji requested the Lokayukta to inquire into the public issue and direct the Government to cancel the BOT project.