A PARKING contractor in front of the UTI Bank, Hazratganj, was caught overcharging by LMC officials, but got an undue favour from municipal commissioner Santosh Rai on Saturday. He escaped severe punishment by paying a fine of Rs 10,000 only.
Contractors Dileep Sonkar and Suresh had been charging more than the LMC’s official rate. After a complaint against them was found true, the then additional municipal commissioner AC Sinha cancelled their contract.
But, acting municipal commissioner Santosh Rai cancelled the order of Sinha and imposed a penalty of Rs 10,000 on the overcharging contractor. In the past, LMC officials used to cancel contracts, besides imposing heavy penalty on overcharging contractors.
The lenient attitude of LMC officials, under acting municipal commissioner Santosh Rai, is surprising. Insiders said the acting municipal chief had set a bad example by not taking stern action against the contractor.
Meanwhile, as a New Year gift to Lucknowites, the LMC has extended the last date for payment of house tax with 5 per cent rebate till January 7.
The rebate was extended after special orders by the Mayor SC Rai who visited LMC office on Saturday. He was there to wish a happy New Year to all the employees.
{{/usCountry}}The rebate was extended after special orders by the Mayor SC Rai who visited LMC office on Saturday. He was there to wish a happy New Year to all the employees.
{{/usCountry}}The LMC recorded all time high house tax collection of Rs 75 lakh in a day on the last day of the year.