CAG criticises transport dept over poor infrastructure

According to the report, the transport department check posts are located at vantage points in the state and along its borders. Further, they play a key role in controlling and monitoring of inter-state movement of vehicles, while the check posts are manned by Motor Vehicle Inspectors (non-technician), who assist in collection of taxes and fees. 

“There are 19 check posts in the state, of which only two are housed in concrete buildings. The check posts lack weigh bridges. To overcome the difficulties in the existing check posts, the modernization of check posts was undertaken,” the report stated. The state government accorded ‘in principle’ approval to modernize the check post at Pethikuppam, located in Andhra Pradesh border. 

“The work of preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR) and execution of works were entrusted to Pallavan Transport Consultancy Limited as a special case and Rs 30 lakh was paid as advance to meet the preliminary expenses of pre-tender activities connected with the project,” it mentioned. 

The audit also observed that though the department identified access to the National Highways for the completion of project, Transport Commissioner failed to consider alternative design suggested by PWD resulting in delay in obtaining of permission from NHAI for more than six years from the date of request and non-completion of the project despite incurring an expenditure of Rs 116.65 crore. 

“The problems encountered during commencement of the work, which involved modifications in pile foundation and design for rigid pavement on the recommendations of Highways research station revealed that proper planning, including prior soil testing, had not been undertaken,” the report mentioned.