writingonblog uncensored: Seawall to safeguard famous Tiruchendur temple fro...

writingonblog uncensored: Seawall to safeguard famous Tiruchendur temple fro...: C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI: The famous Tiruchendur Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple in Tiruchendur, visited by millions of devotees million to ...

Seawall to safeguard famous Tiruchendur temple from erosion awaiting TNSCZMA nod

C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI:
The famous Tiruchendur Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple in Tiruchendur, visited by millions of devotees million to celebrate various festivals throughout the year, is facing threat of erosion and a shore protection wall made of polypropylene gabion boxes filled with granite boxes has been proposed by Inidian Institute of Technology Madras to resist the fury of sea waves. It is learnt that the temple administration is seeking the clearance of Tamil Nadu State Coastal Zone Management Authoritry's clearance for the Rs 19.80 crore project.

Official sources said that the Ocean Engineering Department of IIT Madras has proposed a seawall section for 520 m long along the temple complex to safeguard the eastern side of the compound wall and existing structures close to the sea. It is learnt that Gabion boxes of upto 20 metres towards sea from the xisting compound wall is proposed to be installed along the coast.

The boxes are the net enclosures woven by polypropylene rope. The nets form as cages of which will be filled with stone boulders. They would act as armour against the waves. The filled gabion boxes will be transported and placed at the existing sea wall in line and maintaining the design slope using a crane. The boxes will be placed without gaps between the adjoining units.

However, the hitch is that the state has not prepared a Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) as mandated by the National Green tribunal in its direction on April 11, 2022. It has directed that pending preparation or updation of such SMPs by coastal states or union territories no hard structures for erosion control be raised or constructed. Sources that since the proposed project is only repair and reconstruction, the NGT order may not be applicable for repairing the sea wall.

The temple complex on the eastern side corridor has been experiencing erosion since 1960. The waves are breaking close to the compound wall particularly in June-July (southwest monsoon) and November- December (northeast monsoon). Seawall was built by dumping stones in 1963 and it has been periodically repaired. The beach erosion over the last 60 years had so advanced that the eastern side of the temple complex now falls close to the high tide line, according to a study done by Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments through Indomer Coastal Hydraulics. The report stated that natural calcareous/pearl/coral reefs, which existed during historical time at 1km distance offshore, were destroyed due to illegal mining and the damaged reef is not offering protection to the shore from the waves.

During monsoon, these damaged reefs are not able to attenuate the high waves, which approach the shore, break on compound walls and cause erosion. It has recommended the reconstruction of damaged reefs by placing artificial reefs consisting of concrete hollow shell blocks, which will protect the shore, increase fish breeding and help coral/pearl growth.

The study by HR&CE department states that the concrete cubes were dumped along the eroded part of the shore in 2018. The shore protection efforts are being carried out in a haphazard manner without any scientific approach resulting in erosion and threat posed to the temple complex.

writingonblog uncensored: Battery operated vehicles to be registered in TN w...

writingonblog uncensored: Battery operated vehicles to be registered in TN w...: CHENNAI: All Passenger Vehicles in Tamil Nadu which are battery-operated like E-auto-rickshaws, E-taxis and private EV buses or Passenger Ve...

Battery operated vehicles to be registered in TN without permit fee

CHENNAI:

All Passenger Vehicles in Tamil Nadu which are battery-operated like E-auto-rickshaws, E-taxis and private EV buses or Passenger Vehicles that are driven on methanol or ethanol fuel, shall be issued permits by the Transport Department without a permit fee. 

Registration of electric vehicles plying as passenger transport, like E-auto-rickshaws, E-taxis and EV buses will now commence in Tamil Nadu. Earlier, permits were not being issued to battery operated passenger vehicles and passenger vehicles driven on methanol or ethanol fuel. This comes after electric vehicle industry apprised Industries Minister Dr TRB Rajaa, who requested the intervention of Chief Minister MK Stalin.

Battery operated transport vehicles driven on methanol or ethanol fuel (except Goods vehicle whose Gross Vehicle Weight is below 3000 kgs) shall be issued a permit by the Transport Department without a permit fee, according to a Government Order issued on June 28. This has plugged an important policy gap and will facilitate the expansion of EV fleets in Tamil Nadu.

Speaking on the development, Dr. Rajaa said, “This is an example of how receptive this government is to the needs of the industry. We are able to execute policy changes quickly due to the effective leadership of Chief Minister, who enables us to solve problems that are brought to us in a timely manner.”

This amendment will enable the government to implement its Electric Vehicle Policy 2023 by accelerating adoption of EVs in Tamil Nadu. “Based on feedback from the industry, we are also working on improving EV charging infra across Tamil Nadu. All these steps are sure to significantly drive up the demand for EV vehicles in the state,” Dr. Rajaa said

writingonblog uncensored: NTT launches hyperscale data center campus with ne...

writingonblog uncensored: NTT launches hyperscale data center campus with ne...:   Chennai :  NTT Ltd., a leading global IT infrastructure and services company and market leader in the Indian data center industry announce...

NTT launches hyperscale data center campus with new subsea cable system in Chennai

Chennai:

NTT Ltd., a leading global IT infrastructure and services company and market leader in the Indian data center industry announced the launch of its latest hyperscale data center campus, Chennai 2, and the arrival of its subsea cable system - MIST in the city. The Chennai 2 campus is located in Ambattur, spread across 6 acres is a state-of-the-art project with a total planned capacity of 34.8 MW critical IT load from 2 data center buildings. The first facility which goes live today has a 17.4 MW IT load capacity. 

MIST subsea cable, constructed by consortium members including NTT Communications India Network Service Pte. Ltd. and Orient Link Pte. Ltd., is the first cable system for NTT group to directly provide connectivity to/from India. It spans an impressive 8,100 km and will connect Malaysia, India, Singapore, and Thailand, offering cutting-edge connectivity capabilities. The MIST cable system also represents India's first cable landing of a 12-fiber pair capacity, capable of carrying more than 200 TBPS of data.

 

Chennai’s strategic location opened three distinct opportunities for these projects. The first is addressing the demand for high-quality data center infrastructure driven by Chennai’s thriving digital ecosystem that includes traditional and new economy businesses. The second is positioning Chennai as a disaster recovery (DR) site for enterprises with primary IT infrastructure in other Indian cities. And third, is leveraging global connectivity to offer data center capacity to markets in Southeast Asia like Singapore where capacity is in short supply. These capabilities will transform Chennai into the digital gateway connecting India to Southeast Asia and the world.

 

NTT is the only service provider in India that can offer this unique combination of an interconnected data center platform with global connectivity via MIST, along with a full stack of technology services. For enterprises, it translates to having readily available, high-performance hosting infrastructure with access to NTT’s high-capacity global networks that can help extend their digital businesses to overseas markets. 

 

Doug Adams, SEVP, GDC and Submarine Cable, stated, “Data centers are at the foundation of every successful digital transformation effort. As one of the global leaders in data center services, NTT has been investing aggressively to add data center capacity across all our markets to support our client’s digital initiatives. Our planned and operational data center capacity exceeds 1,900 MW across 20 countries and regions.To conclude it can be said that NTT is well-positioned to meet the growing demands of clients and drive their digital transformation initiatives forward”.

 

Sharad Sanghi, Chairman, NTT Global Data Centers & Cloud Infrastructure India Pvt. Ltd. mentioned that, “India is an important market for us and home to a significant part of this global capacity. Going forward, our investment roadmap in India includes multiple data center campuses, renewable energy plants, subsea cables, and more.We are dedicated to empowering India's digital landscape and are excited to embark on this transformative journey.” 

 

Adding further, Shekhar Sharma, CEO & Managing Director, NTT Global Data Centers & Cloud Infrastructure India Pvt. Ltd & NTT Communications India Network Services Pvt. Ltd.said, “The launch of the state-of-the-art data center campus along with the MIST cable system in Chennai mark major milestones in our journey in India. These projects are perfect examples of Japanese design quality and global expertise, tailored to the Indian market. They have reinforced our position as the leader for data center services in India and helped transform Chennai into the new destination for data centers in Southeast Asia. We’re glad to be able to play a part in making Chennai the gateway connecting digital businesses across India, Southeast Asia, and the world. With our capabilities, we’re eager to help our clients unlock greater value from their digital transformation efforts.”

 

With the launch of the Chennai 2 Data Center campus, NTT’s data center footprint in the country has grown to 16 facilities, with more than 3.1 million sq. ft. (288,104.09 m²) and 205 MW of IT power, further strengthening its position as the market leader in India in this segment.

 

writingonblog uncensored: Indian Bank Chief manager, AGM sentenced to 2 year...

writingonblog uncensored: Indian Bank Chief manager, AGM sentenced to 2 year...: CHENNAI: A former chief manager and assistant general manager of Indian Bank in Thousand Lights branch in Chennai and...

Indian Bank Chief manager, AGM sentenced to 2 years rigorous imprisonment by CBI court

CHENNAI:
A former chief manager and assistant general manager of Indian Bank in Thousand Lights branch in Chennai and a former Joint managing director of Gemini Pictures Cicuit Private Ltd in Virugambakkam have been sentenced to undergo two years rigorous imprisonment with fine of Rs 70000, Rs 50,000 and Rs 90,000 respectively in the Rs 8.35 crore India bank fraud case.

The Special Court Judge, Chennai also imposed a fine of Rs 9 lakh on Gemini Pictures Circuit Pvt. Ltd., Virugambakkam and Rs 2 Lakh on Asian Photo Films Pvt. Ltd., Mylapore.

The court imposed the fine and jail sentence on B Muthaiah, then Chief Manager, Indian Bank, and M. Azeez, then AGM, Indian Bank, along with A Manohar Prasad, then Joint managing director of Gemini Pictures Cicuit Private Ltd in Virugambakkam after CBI had registered a case on June 27, 1998 against the accused on a complaint from Indian Bank.

It was alleged that M Gopalakrishnan, Chairman and managing director, Indian Bank, A V Shanmugasundaram, deputy general manager (Zonal Manager), Indian Bank, Zonal Office, Chennai; Muthaiah and Azeez hatched a conspiracy with other accused by submitting false and forged documents, availed loan and failed to repay the loan amount. A loss to the tune of Rs 8.35 crore was caused to Indian Bank.  

After investigation, a charge sheet was filed on December 21, 2001 against the accused before the Special Judge, Chennai. M Gopalakrishnan, Shanmugasundaram and Ravi Shankar Prasad, then managing director of a private company expired and the charges were abated. 

writingonblog uncensored: Is TN going in for vertical factories? Amendment s...

writingonblog uncensored: Is TN going in for vertical factories? Amendment s...: C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI: Could high-rise buildings be used for industrial purposes? The Rule 39 of Tamil Nadu Combined Building Rules 2019 is...

Is TN going in for vertical factories? Amendment sought in TNCBR to allow high rise buildings be used for industrial purposes

C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI:

Could high-rise buildings be used for industrial purposes? The Rule 39 of Tamil Nadu Combined Building Rules 2019 is silent on it resulting in the Industries department seeking clarification from the Housing department.

It is learnt that Rule 39 of TNCBR 2019 prescribes the planning parameters for high rise buildings which exceed 18.3 metre height. But the confusion is that the guidelines for high rise buildings are not specified based on usage such as housing, institutional buildings and industries. The move by the Industries department seeking clarification is that the new age factories are being designed differently unlike in the past where in the Industrial buildings were flat buildings. The rules framed then did not take these into account.

Apart from these, due to land scarcity in many countries, vertical factories are coming up. This apart to avoid building large industrial zones within the city limits, many cities are creating vertical factories, allowing for maximum convenience and efficient logistics. This makes it possible to have a large production capacity in minimum space, minimising damage to the environment and increasing the efficiency of each object.

It is learnt that Industries department has sought clarification on Rule 39 that high rise buildings can be used for industrial purposes and that the conditions prescribed for high rise buildings would be applicable to industries as well. Industrial buildings are a typical factory or other larger facility that serves one or more business purposes such as manufacturing, remodeling, power generation, repair, and cleaning.

Sources said that the housing department is planning to issue clarification on Rule 39 that high rises could be used for industrial purposes and conditions prescribed for high rise buildings will be applicable to industrial buildings as well.

Similarly, the Industries department is also seeking amendment in Tamil Nadu Combined Development Building Rules on parking regulations for industries.

Official sources said that for industries, the parking regulations may not be specified for different vehicle types. Instead a total parking space at an aggregate level may be prescribed on a case  to case basis based on the number of parking slots for each vehicle type. The number of parking spaces reserved for each vehicle is left to the discretion of the industry.

It is learnt that the Industries department has suggested the housing department to look into Gujarat Comprehensive Development Control Regulations wherein the total parking space requirement is prescribed based on floor space area. It is learnt that the housing department is likely to be considered as part of the ongoing review of Tamil Nadu Combined Development Building Rules.

writingonblog uncensored: TN signs MoUs to prepare students for Industry 4.0

writingonblog uncensored: TN signs MoUs to prepare students for Industry 4.0:  CHENNAI:   In a bid to skill the students as the state is making a transition to Industry 4.0,  Directorate of Technical Education signed t...

writingonblog uncensored: TN signs MoUs to prepare students for Industry 4.0

writingonblog uncensored: TN signs MoUs to prepare students for Industry 4.0:  CHENNAI:   In a bid to skill the students as the state is making a transition to Industry 4.0,  Directorate of Technical Education signed t...

TN signs MoUs to prepare students for Industry 4.0

 CHENNAI:  

In a bid to skill the students as the state is making a transition to Industry 4.0,  Directorate of Technical Education signed two memorandum of understandings, including starting a new  diploma course on “Digital Manufacturing Technologies – Earn while Learn mode' and offering training to four government college students in Centres of excellence to make them industry ready. 

The tripartite MoUs were facilitated by Guidance Tamil Nadu between two industry partners - Tata Electronics Private Limited, Maxbyte, an Industry 4.0 global solutions provider, and Directorate of Technical Education in the presence of higher education secretary Dr D Karthikeyan. 

Under the first MoU signed with Tata Electronics Private Limited (TEPL), DoTE will develop a diploma course on “Digital Manufacturing Technologies - Earn while Learn model”, an industry-ready curriculum, with the required approval from AICTE and offer the same to students through polytechnics in the state. 

The programme outline will be based on three months of classroom sessions and nine months on the job at the TEPL plant. TEPL will provide support for faculty training to upgrade their knowledge of digital and smart manufacturing.

DoTE will also develop or modify the existing diploma courses considering the skill development course at TEPL for the 3rd year of the diploma programme.

The modalities for modification of the curriculum incorporating one-year training at TEPL will jointly be discussed and finalised by DoTE and TEPL for implementation with effect from the academic year 2024-25.

In the second MoU, Maxbyte will set up four centres of excellence for Industry 4.0 which could also be used by the students and faculty of Government College of Engineering, Tirunelveli, Government College of Engineering, Salem, Government College of Engineering, Tiruchy, and Thanthai Periyar Government Institute of Technology, Vellore.

Maxbyte will provide technical inputs and guidance to DoTE on improving the curricula of polytechnic and engineering subjects in production. A subject matter expert will be nominated by Maxbyte to participate in the curriculum reform initiatives of DoTE.

The MoUs were signed by Dr T G Vinay, director, of the Directorate of Technical Education, Vishnu V, managing director and CEO of Guidance Tamil Nadu and Ranjan Bandyopadhyay, chief human resources officer, of Tata Electronics Private Limited, and Surendran D, chief autonomous officer.

writingonblog uncensored: BIS comes out with a draft plan on common developm...

writingonblog uncensored: BIS comes out with a draft plan on common developm...: C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI: Development and building regulations. including building permits, planning permissions and fire safety norms, coul...

BIS comes out with a draft plan on common development and building rules for the entire country

C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI:
Development and building regulations. including building permits, planning permissions and fire safety norms, could soon be common for the entire country under the Development and Building Regulations 2022 prepared by Bureau of Indian Standards.

This would mean that regulatory bodies will become more transparent and efficient and people will be able to build safe and functional buildings utilising the services of registered construction professionals. It is learnt that BIS, the national standards body functioning under the Ministry of Consumer affairs, Food and Public Distribution, has embarked on a project for promotion of use of National Building Code 2016 in the states and Union territories, including Tamil Nadu, and is coming out with draft development and building regulations.

In Tamil Nadu, a two-day workshop was held for officials from the Directorate of Town and Country Planning and Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority. The major objective of BIS is to develop and frame a set of rules and regulations which if adopted by the regulatory bodies like CMDA and DTCP will improve ease of doing business in case of activities related to construction. The commonality in rules and regulations all across the country will allow people to faster, safer and better buildings

It is learnt that BIS has come out with a uniform Draft Development and Building Regulations 2022 after carrying out a comprehensive study of existing regulatory or statutory mechanisms, rules and regulations governing land, development and building construction in the country, mapping these to the provisions available in National Building Code of 2016 and other best practices. The draft is being presented to the state for adoption by regulatory or statutory bodies.

Sources said the concerns and issues raised by Tamil Nadu would then be discussed and any modification or changes will be incorporated to ensure that it befits the requirements of states, Union territories and cities.

According to the BIS draft regulations accessed by The New Indian Express,  there is a timeframe for giving building permits and planning permissions. It has also come out with a format for completion certificate, notice for commencement of development, construction or demolition, quality assurance inspection among others. The BIS development regulations have also incorporated transferable development rights, a compensation mechanism in the form of Floor Space Index (FSI) or Development Rights which shall entitle the owner for construction of built-up-area. The draft regulations have norms for footpath, serbacks, open spaces, off street parking facilities, urban design and fire and life safety.

Former Anna University professor of urban engineering K P Subramanian says that development regulations are one of the contents of the respective master plans. It implies that it varies from city to city. Aggregates obscures the reality and it's more so if it's a national average. Therefore, at best it may be a model and be adapted by cities with appropriate changes, he added.

A Shankar, Head - Government Advisory and Solutions, Jones Lang LaSalle, India, says that the new regulations are focussing more on new construction technologies which were lacking in the state level regulations. With new global standards coming in along with new IT enabled construction monitoring technologies, it doesn't only pertain to building safety but lot of other aspects also. "Since it is a standard, the consumers stand to benefit out of it. But how the regulations will pan out, one has to wait and watch," he says

writingonblog uncensored: Unauthorised construction sealed in residential bu...

writingonblog uncensored: Unauthorised construction sealed in residential bu...: CHENNAI: The unauthorized construction in the fourth floor of a residential apartment on Pammal Main Road has been locked and sealed by Chen...

Unauthorised construction sealed in residential building

CHENNAI:

The unauthorized construction in the fourth floor of a residential apartment on Pammal Main Road has been locked and sealed by Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority under Section 56 and 57 of the Town and Country Planning Act .

According to CMDA release, the action was taken after Madras High Court hearing a petition by G Srinivasan, Secretary, Surendra Homes Apartment Owners Welfare Association directed the CMDA to proceed against the deviated construction in fourth floor of the residential building after giving de-occupation notice.

CMDA issued planning permission for the construction of group development of two blocks -- Block-1, which includes stilt floor plus 3 Floors plus 4th Floor (part) residential building with 35 dwelling units and Block-2 having a Association Room (ground floor only) at Pammal Main
Road in Pallavaram in 2007.

The release stated that Flat number 409 in the 4th floor part was built by covering the open terrace portion together with a room constructed below the overhead tank in the terrace. Two more rooms and a toilet were constructed in the stilt floor which are also constructed unuthorizedly were locked and sealed on Thursday.

writingonblog uncensored: Muthamizh Arignar Dr Kalaignar Pen monument gets f...

writingonblog uncensored: Muthamizh Arignar Dr Kalaignar Pen monument gets f...: EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @ CHENNAI: The stage is set for construction of  Muthamizh Arignar Dr Kalaignar Pen monument in Bay of Bengal off the c...

Muthamizh Arignar Dr Kalaignar Pen monument gets final approval from Environment ministry

EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @ CHENNAI:
The stage is set for construction of  Muthamizh Arignar Dr Kalaignar Pen monument in Bay of Bengal off the coast of Marina Beach by the Public Works Department after Union Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change has accorded Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance subject to compliance of 15 conditions, including no objection certificate from INS Adyar.

Ther clearance also comes in the wake of the government planning year-long celebrations to mark the 100th birth anniversary of Karunanidhi, who was born on June 3, 1924. The state government is building the Pen Monument to commemorate the contribution to Eyal, Esai, Nadagam done by Muthamizh Arignar  Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi to Tamil literature. Pen symbolizes his greatest talent and prowess through which he ruled Tamil hearts and grew up to be a mass leader.

Since the proposed monument would be located some 360 metres into the Bay of Bengal from the Marina beach coast, the  State government sought permission under Section 4 (ii)(j) of the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) notification amended in March 22, 2016.

The Centre has written letter to the Public Works department on June 19 highlighting that the CRZ clearance was provided based on the recommendations of the Expert Appraisal Committee (CRZ) which cleared the project on April 17, 2023 and Tamil Nadu Coastal Zone Management Authority on April 6, 2023.  

The Tamil Nadu State Coastal Zone Management Authority (TNSCZMA) has recommended the project to construct the proposed ‘Pen’ monument after laying down 17 conditions for the project. Official sources confirmed that the clearance has been given by the Environment ministry.

Of the 15 specific conditions put forth by the Union Environment Ministry, one pertains to the ban on construction activity from January 1 to April 30, considered to be the turtle nesting season. Though this issue was raised during the public hearing, the environment ministry was informed that accredited experts and researchers conducted studies and based on their recommendations the state would take all necessary steps to minimise the impact on ecology.

Another condition pertains to submitting reports pertaining to erosion and accretion. This comes after studies and a report of National Centre for Coastal Research states that the project coastal region is on low accretion zone.

The state has been asked to set up an expert monitoring committee to ensure conditions stipulated by TNSCZMA for CRZ clearance are complied. The CRZ clearance is also subject to final order from National Green Tribunal (south Zone ) and other cases if any.

Besides the specific conditions, the Union environment ministry has also highlighted that the clearance is subject to the final order of the Supreme Court pertaining to Goa Foundation versus Union of India as may be applicable to the project.

writingonblog uncensored: A GeM of a MoU for TANSTIA

writingonblog uncensored: A GeM of a MoU for TANSTIA: CHENNAI: In a bid to boost growth and development in the small and tiny industries sector, Government e-Marketplace, the Public Procurement ...

A GeM of a MoU for TANSTIA

CHENNAI:
In a bid to boost growth and development in the small and tiny industries sector, Government e-Marketplace, the Public Procurement Portal for procurement of goods and services for all Central Government and State government ministries, departments and public sector units (PSUs, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Tamil Nadu Small and Tiny Industries Association (TANSTIA).

The MoU was signed on Wednesday by K Marlappan, president of TANSTIA in the presence of AV Muralidharan, Deputy Director General and deputy CEO Government e Marketplace (GeM), G Kathiresan, Joint Secretary, TANSTIA, Ramesh Mahadevan, Business Facilitator, GeM, KS Prasanna, Consultant, GeM and N Sabareesh, Consultant, GeM, a release stated.

The move will enhance the GeM seller base in Tamil Nadu. The agreement outlines the commitments and collaborative efforts of GeM and TANSTIA  to promote transparency, efficiency, and inclusivity in public procurement processes.

Last fiscal year, Tamil Nadu recorded the second highest growth in GeM procurement amongst 36 States and Union territories. The State observed an increase in order value by 302.5% from Rs 220.89 crore in financial year 2021-22 to Rs 889.19 Crore in financial year  2022-23. Medium and small enterprises received orders worth Rs 3,808.50 crore from Central and state Government buyers in the financial year 2022-23, an increase of 122.0% from financial year 2021-22. With access to the national market, 92% of orders (in terms of value) were from buyers outside Tamil Nadu.

TANSTIA has totally 105 small scale industries associations and nearly 1600 direct unit holders in its membership folder and nearly 27,216 indirect members, including district small scale industries Associations, Industrial Estate Manufacturers Associations and product-wise manufacturers associations, a release stated.

 

writingonblog uncensored: TN to appoint district monitoring officer for Chen...

writingonblog uncensored: TN to appoint district monitoring officer for Chen...: C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu government will be appointing a senior officer as monitoring officer for Chennai District for oversee the...

TN to appoint district monitoring officer to oversee land acquisition

C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI:
Tamil Nadu government will be appointing a senior officer as monitoring officer for Chennai District for oversee the land acquisition and other related works as the state is reviewing welfare schemes implemented by the government in various districts over the last two months.

Chennai was left out as senior officers at the State were appointed as monitoring officers to districts across the state. It is also learnt that the Ilam Thedi Kalvi Scheme is likely to be reworked and can be implemented in specific areas after identification of vulnerable schemes. The scheme was launched by the Tamil Nadu Government to address learning loss among students due to Covid-19 pandemic. It has emerged as an effective intervention not only in bridging the loss but also in creating a culture of joyful reading and learning.

The district monitoring officials were also urged to take a count of students who have passed Plus 2 exams but did not pursue higher education. They were also advised to visit ITIs which have been upgraded to Industry 4.0 standard. There were also suggestions to include Body Mass Index along with monitoring height and weight of children in ICDS and Anganwadis apart from conducting eye camps in schools.

The district monitoring officers were also advised to ensure whether village panchayat presidents belonging to scheduled castes and tribes are properly empowered. They were also asked to review the number of community certificates issued to narikuravar and kuruvikaran communities in the districts.

Sources said that top bureaucrats will be reviewing a total of 11 flagship schemes implemented by eight departments of the state. They have also been asked to visit iconic projects, flagship scheme works and other important schemes like Chief minister Breakfast Scheme as well as Anganwadis.

The officers have been asked to spend  two days per month in the districts and submit reports to Chief secretary Irai Anbu which is being reviewed every month. It is learnt that two review meetings have already been held. One in the month of May and one earlier this month.

Among the schemes which are being reviewed include Kalaignar Anaithu Grama Orunginainda Velan Valarchi Thittam implemernted by Agriculture and Farmers Welfare department; Anaithu Grama Anna Marumalarchi Thittam and Namakku Naame Thittam by Rural Development and Panchayat Raj department; Kalaignar Nagarpuram Mempattu Thittam, Namakku Naame Thittam and AMRUT 2.0 by Municipal Administration and Water supply Department; Applications pending for issue of patta by Revenue and Disaster management;

Other projects include reviewing school infrastructure by Shool Education derpazrtment; Naan Mudhalvan Scheme by Special Programme Implementation;  ICDS and Anganwadies by Social Welfare and Women Empowerment and Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam by Health and Family werlfare department.

The officials have to provide necessary advice or solutions to the district officials for sorting out the bottlenecks and pave the way for speedy implementation of the schemes. They also have to provide general feedback and suggestions for improvements in the design of the scheme for effective implementation.

Sources said that the Chief Secretary has urged the monitoring officers to attend district level bankers coordination meetings to ensure credit linkage as per the credit plans and to insist for early clearance of pending applications.  

writingonblog uncensored: TN govt defends Fintech City tender, says firm not...

writingonblog uncensored: TN govt defends Fintech City tender, says firm not...: Chennai: The Rs 82.87 crore Fintech City contract was awarded to Namakkal-based PST Engineering Construction (PSTEC), which came under the s...

TN govt defends Fintech City tender, says firm not 'blacklisted' due to Madras HC stay order

Chennai:

The Rs 82.87 crore Fintech City contract was awarded to Namakkal-based PST Engineering Construction (PSTEC), which came under the scanner for constructing poor quality apartments for the economically weaker sections at KP Park in Chennai, as the firm was not yet 'blacklisted', according to the state government. Chief Minister M K Stalin laid the foundation for the Fintech City and a Fintech Tower on last Saturday.

Official sources said that Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board (TNUHDB) had even started the process to blacklist PSTEC but the developer got the stay from  Madras High Court. It is learnt before awarding the tender to PSTEC, there has been a lot of discussion administratively whether to let PSTEC participate in the tender.  The legal opinion was sought where in it was highlighted that the developer was not blacklisted as such he can be allowed to participate in the tender. The officials took the decision to give him the tender as there was a difference of Rs 17 crore between PSTEC and the next bidder. Sources said the tender is not for constructing a building but for roads, storm water drains, storm water pumping station, flood wall, domestic water, recycled water and waste water network and external security system. "We followed everything legally," sources said.

While there has been no progress in vacating the stay to proceed againt PSTEC, the government has hit back stating that PSTEC was awarded works in various departments after 2021, including the six laning of the Tuticorin Port Road section of NH-7A (new NH-138) from KM 0.000 to km 6.140 on EPC mode by the National Highways Authority on India on March 31, 2023 at a cost of Rs.130.20 Crore.

Officials are tight-lipped on how the tender was given to a firm which is under investigation with a legal case pending in Madras High Court.  
What is more surprising is that the state has said that ongoing process for fixing the accountability for the lapses in the construction of 864 EWS Tenements (Stilt+9 Floors) at K.P. Park will be continuously followed up by Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board (TNUHDB) and it will be ensured that if any lapses are proved, corresponding penal action as per Transparency in Tenders Act and bid conditions of that project will be taken. This despite Centre for Urbanization, Buildings & Environment (CUBE), a joint Initiative of IIT Madras and Tamil Nadu Government, that assessed the construction quality of tenements of K.P. Park Scheme at Pulianthope found several discrepancies in constructions with poor quality and unacceptable workmanship of plastering being one of the most critical defects.

"The investigation by CUBE has already highlighted the lapses. All Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption was to do is file a FIR in the criminal case, which it has not done. The government defending the contract given to PSTEC is unacceptable. We will have to move the court to file a FIR in this case," said Jayaram Venkatesan, convenor of Arappor Iyakkam.

The government then had promised stringent action against the contractor. HR&CE Minister P.K. Sekarbabu had on October 2021 said that the government had decided not to award any more projects to PSTEC.  However now the governmentciting relevant provisions of the Transparency in Tenders Act, Rules and bid documents, it states disqualification of a bidder can only happen if the entity is found to be blacklisted. "This bidder was found eligible in the technical evaluation, along with two other bidders," the release stated.

The Fintech City project relates to the Infrastructure and Site Development of Phase I of Fintech City over 56.48 acres. As part of the work, site grading, roads, storm water drains, storm water pumping station, flood wall, domestic water, recycled water and waste water network, external security system and security building are to be taken up. The financial bids of the three bidders were opened and after discussions about workability of the prices, the work has been awarded to PST Engineering Construction at Rs.82.87 crore including Goods and Service Tax (GST)  which is 16.34% less than the department estimate, by TIDCO. The details of other two bidders who had competed for the tender was not provided.

The release also stated that the e-tender for construction of Fintech tower, a high rise building with a built-up space of 5.6 lakhs square feet was awarded to URC Construction Private Ltd, Bangalore for Rs151.55 crore includingGST which was 11.64% less than the Department Estimate on June 13, 2023.

"The fair participation and competition are exemplified by the fact that both the tenders have attracted very competitive quotes lower than the estimates, thus resulting in a savings of Rs.36.15 crores to TIDCO," the release stated.  

writingonblog uncensored: Syndicate Bank manager sentenced to 7 years Rigoro...

writingonblog uncensored: Syndicate Bank manager sentenced to 7 years Rigoro...: CHENNAI: N Gunaseelan, a former Manager of Syndicate Bank, has been sentenced to undergo seven years Rigorous Imprisonment with fine of Rs. ...

Syndicate Bank manager sentenced to 7 years Rigorous imprisonment

CHENNAI:
N Gunaseelan, a former Manager of Syndicate Bank, has been sentenced to undergo seven years Rigorous Imprisonment with fine of Rs. 75,000 by additional district Judge for CBI Cases, Madurai in a bank fraud case. Gunaseelan sanctioned and released housing loans worth Rs155.79 lakh to  ineligible borrowers. The loan accounts became non performing assets to the tune of Rs162.72 lakh.

The court also sentenced 14 others to undergo rigorous imprisonment (RI) for three years along with varying amount of fines to each of them. They include
Paul Johnson and A Kumaresan both to undergo three years RI with fine of Rs. 20,000 each; Jesuvin Febi (three years RI with fine of Rs. 30,000); R. Mahalingam, C. Arumughan, Raja Thomas, R. Murali, R. Thirupati, G. Thangarajan, R. Vadamalai, A. Jesuraj, Sharun Rashit, P. Theradimuthu and S Sundaresan (three years RI with fine of Rs. 60,000  each) in the bank fraud case.

CBI had registered a case on October 4, 2010 against tGunaseelan on complaint from Syndicate bank, Regional Office, Coimbatore. It was alleged that 14 persons conspired with public servants to cheat Syndicate Bank, Dindigul Main Branch. The chargesheet was filed on May 3, 2012 against the accused. The Trial Court found all 15 guilty and convicted them, a release stated.

writingonblog uncensored: MTC seeks to enhance the limit of borrowing to Rs ...

writingonblog uncensored: MTC seeks to enhance the limit of borrowing to Rs ...: C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI: Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) is struggling to run its operations and is planning to enhance the limit ...

MTC seeks to enhance the limit of borrowing to Rs 4,500 to run its operations

C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI:
Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) is struggling to run its operations and is planning to enhance the limit of borrowing power from Rs 4,000 crore to Rs 4,500 crore.

Incurring a loss of Rs 8,342 crore and cash loss of Rs 7638 crore till April 2023, Metropolitan Transport Corporation financial position is becoming critical day by day. The Corporation is able to manage day-to-day affairs only with the borrowings  from Government, Tamil Nadu Transport Development Finance Corporation (TDFC) and availing Overdraft from Bankers, it is learnt.

Sources said that operational and other revenue earned are not sufficient enough to meet out the daily payment to fuel companies. Despite this, the payments to depots for their maintenance are prioritized and met out according to the fund position of the Corporation to ensure full operation of buses every day, official sources said.

It is learnt that all the ordinary town services (White boards) are being operated and the daily travel of women in ordinary buses of MTC has considerably increased. As a result, the gap between the revenue and expenditure is widening month to month and in some days the revenue earned is not sufficient enough to meet out the daily payment to fuel companies and other variable costs, sources said.

The total loans outstanding including bank overdraft for the last nine years as on April 30, 2023 is Rs 3853.37 crore. The outstanding loan increased from Rs 1716 crore in 2018-19 to Rs 3853 crore till April 30,  2023. Sources said that there has been an increase in the outstanding loan from 2019-20 till date due to Covid-19.

To meet commitments like salary, pension to retired employees, interest to banks every month the MTC is availing loan from TDFC even after utilizing the subsidies such as student subsidy, women free ticket subsidy and Diesel subsidy. Hence the loan outstanding to TDFC is getting accumulated every month.

Every month, the shortfall in revenue is being managed by availing loans from TDFC as funds sanctioned and released for senior citizens and differently abled pass. This apart MTC has been postponing payment to credit societies, Life Insurance corporation and Postal Life Insurance etc to ensure the operations are run smoothly. But recently, there has been a setback. The Madras High Court in a recent judgement has asked MTC to pay the dues Rs 70.23 crores (as on March 2023) in 15 instalments. That is Rs 5 crore per month along with the current recovery of Rs 6.00 crore every month.

This has put MTC in financial stress. Now the monthly recoveries such as payment to Credit Societies, payment to LIC, PLI has to be paid mandatorily and also at the month end, the interest to banks has to be paid for overdraft and various term loans obtained. Apart from this, the financial requirement for salary payment has increased by Rs 2.50 crore per month since the dearness allowance has increased 4% additionally from May 2023.

As a result, MTC is seeking financial assistance from the government to comply with the  direction of the High Court and close the old outstanding dues and current recoveries towards credit societies. It is learnt that the Transport department advised it to approach TDFC, which has sanctioned funds for the closure of old outstanding dues only and haven't sanctioned any fund towards the current recoveries of credit societies.

Sources said that a board meeting will decide to enhance the limit of borrowing power from Rs 4000 crore to Rs.4500 crore, sources said.

writingonblog uncensored: After getting custody of Senthil Balaji, ED silent...

writingonblog uncensored: After getting custody of Senthil Balaji, ED silent...: C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI: Enforcement Directorate has not updated its website on the searches as well as the arrest of Tamil Nadu minister Sen...

After getting custody of Senthil Balaji, ED silent on searches in TN, arrest of minister

C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI:
Enforcement Directorate has not updated its website on the searches as well as the arrest of Tamil Nadu minister Senthil Balaji in the early hours of Wednesday. The agency while updating on the developments till June 15 in its website has ignored the searches it has conducted on Tuesday in the state as well as judicial remand of Balaji, who is undergoing treatment at Kauvery Hospital here.

While ED officials are tight-lipped over the developments in Tamil Nadu pertaining to Senthil Balaji, the agency last month was quick to provide a press release over attaching various immovable properties across Tamil Nadu, on May 25 valued at Rs 36.3 Crore and also attachment of Rs 34.7 lakh available in the bank account of Udhayanidhi Stalin Foundation in a money laundering case in its website.

The agency has also not recorded the local court granting the Enforcement Directorate (ED) eight days custody of Balaji. There have been no press conferences in New Delhi but just some leaks in the media of summons being issued to Balaji's brother, close aides and relatives. While the ED has got custody of Balaji, there is also no sign of Enforcement Directorate officials till Saturday evening visiting Balaji at Kauvery Hospital despite getting his custody.

Even the Enforcement Directorate office in Chennai hardly reacted to insinuations put forth by the state government that Balaji was tortured by Enforcement Directorate officials after forcing him to undergo a 17 hour ordeal in his home before being arrested. As the state highlighted that Balaji was tortured by officials and preparing a strong case against the Central agency for human rights violations, there has been an uneasy calm over the issue by ED.

Until ED does not come out with the truth on what spurred the 2am arrest, the doubts would be placed on the conduct of officials in taking custody of Senthil Balaji, against whom the Supreme court has directed the Enforcement Directorate to proceed with investigations.

The Supreme Court, on May 16, refused to discharge Balaji in the cash-for-jobs scam and set aside a 2022 Madras High Court order for a fresh investigation against the minister and others in the case. The high court order had nullified a Supreme Court judgment of September 8, 2022, which had restored the criminal case against the minister. The Supreme Court has granted the state police two months’ time to complete the investigation and submit the final report. It also directed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to continue its probe into the charges under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

After being assigned inmate number 001440 by Puzhal prison after Balaji was remanded to judicial custody by the court, the minister was placed under the security of jail authorities on Wednesday. And later he was granted custody to the Enforcement Directorate on Friday. The minister requires a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), a heart bypass surgery. as three blocks were diagnosed in his heart. The court has allowed ED to constitute a medical team of its choice to monitor the treatment and conditions of the minister. However, ED has yet to constitute a team.

The state government officials have said that they are unaware of when the team would visit the hospital. Meanwhile, it is unclear when the bypass surgery would be performed on Balaji at Kauvery Hospital.

The case against Balaji pertains to allegations that Balaji had received huge amounts as bribes from various persons for appointing them as drivers and conductors when he was the transport minister in the AIADMK government, led by the late J Jayalalithaa, between 2011 and 2015.

writingonblog uncensored: Eight 'manjappai' vending machines to be installed...

writingonblog uncensored: Eight 'manjappai' vending machines to be installed...: C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI: In a bid to curb the menace of banned single use plastics in the city, the state environment department has tied up ...

Eight 'manjappai' vending machines to be installed in Chennai

C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI:
In a bid to curb the menace of banned single use plastics in the city, the state environment department has tied up with German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) to install eight manjappai vending machines.

The machines shall be placed in Koyambedu market (Two of them), Koyambedu bus terminus, Marina Beach, Vandalur Zoo, T Nagar, Tambaram market and Mylapore Tank. The cloth bag for the light vending machines will be supported by a women's self help group linked through Hand in Hand Inclusive Development services, a non governmental organisation.

The initiative is being launched after erman Federal ministry of Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV) in collaboration with Union ministry of Environment, Forest and climate change (MOEFF &CC)  is implementing a Indo German Technical Cooperation project on 'Circular Economy Solutions (CES) preventing Marine Litter in Ecosystems' .

The CES project is jointly supporting the efforts of the state by installing eight manjappai vending machines. It is also learnt that the state has appointed a special task force to oversee the ban on single-use plastic besides conducting awareness and promotion of alternatives to prohibited single use items.  However, street vendors and small eateries are feeling the pinch as they find alternative packaging products to be too expensive.

Sources said there are plans to conduct a study and survey to make High Court and Secretariat a single use plastic free campus. It is learnt that recently a high level meeting was conducted which was chaired by Chief Secretary to enforce the ban on single use plastics.

During the meeting, various strategies including having a green messenger in each school and making local bodies offices and panchayat offices be made single use plastics free campus. There has also been an idea to have a model district which is single use plastic free.

The Tamil Nadu government banned 14 types of one-time use and throw away plastic items on January 1, 2019, and reinforced the action under the 'People's Campaign Against Throw Away Plastics' on September 3, 2021. The Union government too pitched in and effected a ban on the manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale and use of single use plastics, including polystyrene and expanded polystyrene commodities, on July 1, 2022.

The plastic waste generation in Tamil Nadu was estimated at 4,31,472 tonnes in 2019-20, as per the annual report of the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department.

writingonblog uncensored: Now Senthil Balaji's brother under ED, Income Tax ...

writingonblog uncensored: Now Senthil Balaji's brother under ED, Income Tax ...: CHENNAI: The Income Tax department and Enforcement Directorate have issued summons to R V Ashok Kumar, the brother of Tamil Nady Minister Se...

Now Senthil Balaji's brother under ED, Income Tax scanner; Summons issued to Ashok

CHENNAI:
The Income Tax department and Enforcement Directorate have issued summons to R V Ashok Kumar, the brother of Tamil Nady Minister Senthil Balaji in a tax evasion case as well as in the cash-for-jobs linked money laundering case.

This comes after both the central agencies conducted searches in the state. Income Tax department conducted searches on properties related to the family members of Balaji at various places in Chennai, Karur, Coimbatore, and Erode in Tamil Nadu last month while Enforcement directorate conducted the searches on Tuesday. Both Income Tax department and Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at the office of the minister’s brother V Ashok.

Ashok's name surfaces in the three First Information Reports (FIRs) along with Balaji and his personal assistant Shanmugam and others for taking cash in exchange for providing jobs in the Transport department during the period between 2011 and 2015, when Senthil Balaji was the Transport minister in the AIADMK regime.

Sources said that summons have been issued multiple times to him his personal appearance by the Income Tax department. But he has yet to appear.

Now, Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Ashok, his personal assistant B Shanmugam and others for questioning next week in the cash-for-jobs case for which the minister has been remanded to judicial custody.
 
The two, along with some other accused and a woman who is suspected to be linked to an alleged 'benami' land deal related to the minister have been summoned. They have been called for recording their statements under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Both the agencies are probing the acquisition of a property with a value exceeding Rs 25 crore for a mere Rs 10.88 lakh. The Enforcement Directorate claims that a benami individual was used to create a facade and distance from the true owner of the property. Sources said ED has asked them to depose before the agency at its office here on different dates next week.


ED has said that said that three First Information Reports (FIRs) were filed against Balaji, his brother Ashok Kumar, his personal assistant Shanmugam, and others for taking cash in exchange for providing jobs in the Transport department during the period between 2011 and 2015, when he was the Transport minister in the AIADMK regime.

writingonblog uncensored: TN hosts round-table conference to woo $6bn invest...

writingonblog uncensored: TN hosts round-table conference to woo $6bn invest...:   CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu government in partnership with World Economic Forum is working on strategies on make the state a global leader in elec...

TN hosts round-table conference to woo $6bn investments in EV sector

 

CHENNAI:
Tamil Nadu government in partnership with World Economic Forum is working on strategies on make the state a global leader in electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing and setting a target to woo $6 billion in investments and generating 1.5 lakh new jobs in the next five years.

During a closed-door roundtable discussion chaired by the Industries, Investment Promotion, and Commerce Minister Dr TRB Rajaa, the focus was also on adapting Tamil Nadu’s robust automobile and auto components manufacturing ecosystem to embrace EV manufacturers.

The event which brought together CEOs, senior leaders from more than 20 major global Electric vehicles (EV), EV component manufacturers, and government officials also focussed on paving the way for net-zero manufacturing in the EV sector and expanding opportunities for MSMEs and entrepreneurs within the EV sector.

Speaking during the occasion, Dr  Rajaa highlighted the revised "Tamil Nadu Electric Vehicles Policy 2023", which incentivizes and attracts investors to strengthen the State's flourishing EV ecosystem. Six cities, including Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, Salem, and Tirunelveli, he said, have been earmarked for development as EV hubs to hasten Tamil Nadu's rise as a global EV manufacturing hub.

Gopalakrishnan CS, Chief Manufacturing Officer, Hyundai Motor India Ltd., said that Hyundai will be a committed partner to realize Tamil Nadu's vision to become a preferred EV hub in the country. "We believe that the upcoming action plans will drive quicker adoption of EVs while balancing measures on the supply and demand sides and charging infrastructure in the State," he said.

Over the last five years, Tamil Nadu has emerged as India's leading EV manufacturing destination, earning the moniker' EV Capital of India'. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the State secured nearly Rs 24,000 crore in EV investments, leading to almost 48,000 jobs.

Industries secretary S Krishnan, Home secretary P Amudha, Managing director of Sipcot  E Sundaravalli, Guidance managing director and CEO Vishnu Venugopalan, FaMe Tamil Nadu executive director Grace LalrindikiPachuau;  managing director of Tamil Nadu Skill Development corporation J Innocent Divya; CEO of Tamil Nadu Startup and Innovation Mission Sivarajah Ramanathan; Lead, Moving Emerging Market, World Economic Forum Jasmeet Khurana and Lead, Moving India, World Economic Forum Pramoda Gode, a release from Guidance Department stated.

writingonblog uncensored: ED already had a strong case against Balaji; Magis...

writingonblog uncensored: ED already had a strong case against Balaji; Magis...:   C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Electricity Minister V Senthil Balaji arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) af...

ED already had a strong case against Balaji; Magistrate to decide on Balaji's custody in Delhi or in Chennai?

 

C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI:
Tamil Nadu Electricity Minister V Senthil Balaji arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) after a long session of questioning will have to be produced before a judicial magistrate for taking into the custody of Enforcement Directorate once medical tests are favourable. It is not known whether he will be taken to New Delhi or kept in local custody.

It is learnt that based on the prima facie evidence, the statement of the minister was recorded after which he was arrested. While enforcement directorate was taking him to a magistrate to get his custody, the minister complained of a chest pain and he was taken into Omandurar Hospital.

Usually, there have been many high profile cases where in people complain of health issues. The investigating agencies ensure all such issues are cleared before taking the person into custody.

Such cases are usually helpful for the investigating agencies as this would help in denying bail to Balaji, sources said.  Usually, officials never allow ministers or others to meet the person involved in any offence after he is arrested. "Where is the right when he is arrested," sources said. "Only the family is allowed to visit him. Otherwise it will become a big tamasha," sources said.

While, it is not clear whether Balaji would be taken to New Delhi or may be taken into local custody. It is learnt that the magistrate will have to take a decision in this regard. It also depends on the importance of the case.

The arrest comes after a bench of the Supreme Court, on May 16, refused to discharge Balaji in the cash-for-jobs scam and set aside a 2022 Madras High Court order for a fresh investigation against the minister and others in the case. The high court order had the effect of nullifying a Supreme Court judgment of September 8, 2022, which had restored the criminal case against the minister. The Supreme Court has granted the state police two months’ time to complete the investigation and submit the final report. It also directed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to continue its probe into the charges under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The court had allowed the appeals filed by the ED and allowed the investigating agency to proceed further from the stage at which their hands were tied by the impugned order. "Once a piece of information relating to the acquisition of huge amount of illegal gratification in the matter of public employment has come into the public domain, it is the duty of the ED to register an information report," the court observed.

Under Balaji’s tenure as transport minister during the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) rule, recruitment for the post of reserve crew drivers, crew conductors, junior tradesmen (JTM), junior assistants (JA) and junior engineers was announced in November 2014. Aides of Balaji allegedly took cash from the aspirants for jobs in the Metropolitan Transport Corporation. While jobs were allegedly given to those who paid up, some were kept pending in view of the impending elections with the promise of accommodating them thereafter.

In 2016, following the death of then chief minister J. Jayalalithaa, Balaji moved out with the breakaway T.T.V. Dhinakaran faction. Distraught job aspirants stepped up the demand for return of their money. In 2018, four complaints were filed against Balaji and others, and an FIR was filed against them under Sections 406 (criminal breach of trust), 420 (cheating) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code. The following year, the case was investigated and a charge-sheet filed before a special court for MPs and MLAs.

In 2021, Balaji approached the Madras High Court to quash the FIRs filed against him. He submitted that he had entered into a settlement with 13 aspirants, who were arrayed as witnesses in the case, and returned their money. Accepting it, the judge quashed the proceeding of the special court. However, the police and others challenged it and filed an appeal in the Madras High Court.

Meanwhile, the ED took cognisance of the case and registered four cases in connection with the scam, and named Balaji as an accused in of them. Further, the ED issued summons to Balaji and others for an inquiry. Challenging the summons, Balaji again approached the Madras High Court, contending that there were no jurisdictional facts for the ED to initiate any proceedings under the PMLA.

Allowing his petition, in September 2022, a bench of Justices T. Raja and K. Kumaresh Babu stayed the FIRs and quashed the summons issued by the ED. In swift retaliation, the ED challenged the high court’s order before the Supreme Court. In October last year, a Supreme Court bench, headed by then Justice S. Abdul Nazeer set aside the order of the high court and restored the criminal complaint against Balaji and others.

Meanwhile, the ED had completed its probe and had filed charge-sheets in all the cases. Challenging it, Balaji again approached the high court. On October 31, 2022, a single judge observed that there were irregularities in the investigation conducted by the ED and that it had overlooked certain crucial aspects. Further, the judge directed the ED to conduct a fresh investigation into two cases registered against the minister.

Challenging the single judge order for a fresh investigation, the ED filed an appeal before the Supreme Court. A few victims and Arappor Iyakkam, a NGO that campaigns against corruption, also filed an appeal challenging the Madras High Court order. While a few cases were listed before Justice Krishna Murari’s bench, other matters related to the cash-for-jobs cases were listed before the bench headed by Justice Ramasubramanian. Objecting to this, Balaji approached the Supreme Court, seeking an order for the cases to be heard by a single set of judges. Acting on this, Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud formed a special bench comprising both Justices Murari and Ramasubramanian. The special bench, which had reserved the order last month, heard the case on a daily basis and delivered its May 16 order.

writingonblog uncensored: Chennai's Green Space Capita way below WHO indicat...

writingonblog uncensored: Chennai's Green Space Capita way below WHO indicat...:  The summer heat is unbearable in Chennai this month and this could be linked to the depleting green vegetation to make way for building n...

Chennai's Green Space Capita way below WHO indicator prescribed for healthy living

 The summer heat is unbearable in Chennai this month and this could be linked to the depleting green vegetation to make way for building new infrastructure like Chennai metro rail network and expansion of roads. According to the draft City Climate Action Plan prepared by the Greater Chennai Corporation(GCC), the green space per capita, an indicator to assess urban green infrastructure in the city, is 8.75 square metre per person, which is unhealthy when compared with 9.5 square metre per person prescribed for a healthy living as per World Health Organisation.

Urban green infrastructure is considered to be a key element in improving quality of life and creating an appropriate framework for sustainable cities. In Chennai it shows a negative relationship with vegetation and water bodies. Higher temperatures are observed in areas with lower vegetation and waterbody cover. From 1991 to 2021, Chennai has seen a threefold increase in the built-up area (from 102 sq. km to 295 sq. km), while the vegetation cover has reduced from 23 per cent to 17 per cent (from 101.9 sq. km to 74.35 sq. km). Additionally, a significant decrease has also been observed in the area covered by water bodies, from 8 per cent to 4 per cent, the draft report accessed by TNIE stated.

The temperature is observed to be significantly higher in areas where the land surface is covered by materials such as concrete, asphalt, metal, and sand, compared to areas with water bodies and vegetation. Higher temperatures have been recorded in industrial areas such as SIDCO industrial estate and integral coach factory, while parks, gardens, forests, and waterbodies are comparatively cooler, says the report.

The impact of increased heat is higher on urban poor communities, as they live in thermally uncomfortable built environments with higher densities, low vegetation cover, and limited choice of roofing materials, the report states. In Chennai, 27 per cent of the slum houses use asbestos sheets as a roofing material, 65 which heats much faster than cement roofs. Nocturnal urban heat Island effect, which prolongs the time it takes for the city to cool off at night, too, has a higher impact on the urban poor, who have limited access to cooling equipment and electricity.

Limited access to fresh water adds to this dilemma by increasing the risk of dehydration. The report quoting Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital states that 30 to 50 patients with heat-related symptoms are reported between April and June each year.

Heat exhaustion also reduces economic productivity. In 2016, construction workers report 18-35 per cent less productivity in peak summer due to extreme heat stress. Since extreme heat also impacts poultry and cattle, dairy-based businesses are affected along with the livelihoods of the communities dependent on them, according to the draft report.

However, to increase the green cover, Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) has partnered with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) India  to implement 'Greenprint for Chennai' under the third masterplan. The focus is to enhance the city’s urban green cover, protect its rivers, waterbodies, and coastal wetlands.The Greenprint will integrate natural infrastructure or blue-green infrastructure such as rivers, wetlands, open previous spaces, green cover to mitigate the effects of climate change and rapid urbanisation and making the city water secure.

writingonblog uncensored: Bus shelters unsafe for women, says report

writingonblog uncensored: Bus shelters unsafe for women, says report: C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI: More than 14 lakh women commuters in the city use the bus services everyday. A safety audit report done for Greater ...

Bus shelters unsafe for women, says report

C Shivakumar @ CHENNAI:
More than 14 lakh women commuters in the city use the bus services everyday. A safety audit report done for Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) by Gender and Policy Lab, the Delhi-based social enterprise Safetipin and the Chennai-based non-profit organisation Prajnya which mapped the bus shelters and bus depots found that 10 bus stops and bus shelters could pose risk when it comes to women's safety. Interestingly, nine of these are managed by GCC and the 10th one by the Highways  Department.

The bus stops include -- Korukkupet Bus Stop; Ambedkar College bus stop (Towards Central and Red Hills); Ashok Pillar Bus Stop; Chinandi Madabam Bus Stop; IOC Nagar Bus Stop; Muthamizh Nagar Bus Stop; Vyasarpadi Market Bus Stop; SIDCO Bus Stop; Vasuki Nagar Bus Stop and Teacher Training College Bus Stop, Saidapet (Maintained by Highways department).

According to the report, bus stops and  bus depots are spaces that need to be safe and risk free for women and easily accessible for persons with disability in order for them to use the public transport easily. However, the findings reveal that bus shelters and bus stops lack of lighting and signages, there are no pedestrian crossing nearby; some are located near liquor shops; the approach roads are dark; there are dark spaces behind the bus shelter and there is no bus shelter in some bus stops.

The report also stated that two bus depots managed by Greater Chennai Corporation -- Broadway Bus Terminus and Guindy Bus Terminus --- have issues pertaining to lighting, encroachments, no ramp provisions for people with disabilities, lack of seating and signages. In Broadway bus Terminus, there are dark spots found in some parts of the terminus toward the exit (the farther side of the bus stop from the Metro station), absence of ramps or hand rails to support people with disabilities and encroachments at the entrance of the bus stop obstructing movement.

Similarly, Guindy Bus Terminus lacks adequate lighting inside the terminus and the road corners. The toilets near the terminus are closed and need to be opened, states the report.

The report also states that IOC bus stand, KKD Nagar Bus Depot and the Muthamizh Nagar Bus Depots were found to be unsafe where unwanted activities were going on. Men were found drinking on the approach road towards the KKD Nagar Bus Depot. There were men inside the depot urinating in public. The dark areas behind the IOC bus stand were being used for unwanted activities and substance abuse was observed behind the toilets in Muthamizh Nagar Bus Depot.

The Ambedkar College bus stop appeared to be another location for substance abuse and public urination while substance abuse and rowdyism was found in the Ashok Pillar Bus Stop, the report stated.

The report reveals that there are no lights in the existing bus stop design. Based on the Gender and Policy Lab’s suggestion, light has been included in the design. However, the new tender only applies to a certain number of bus stops. Especially in areas where there are no adequate street lights or where street lights are dim. Information on routes with more women passengers could be obtained and those bus stops could be given priority in terms of lighting, the report stated.

According to international guidelines, bus stops should be placed 50–100 metres or more away from these intersections to reduce the risk of accidents and give the bus' most vulnerable passengers—the elderly, people with disabilities, and expectant women—more time to board.

According to the audits, the SIDCO bus stop and the Vyasarpadi market bus stop were located in high vehicular traffic area. It is recommended that GCC has its own manual on the location of bus stops.

CMDA seals Chennai Coffee outlet in Mylapore

CHENNAI: 

Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority on Friday sealed a Chennai Coffee outlet which was functioning in an unauthorised building consisting of Ground Floor plus mezzanine floor plus five floors abutting Sivasamy Salai in Mylapore.

It is learnt that the building deviated from the original plan in 1982 and was subjected to enforcement action.  Now, consequent to the notices issued on November 3, 2015, April 11, 2017 and November 17, 2022, Chennai Coffee Shop with the Groundfloor existing in the front setback space has been sealed, according to the notice put on the building.

The Coffee shop will remain sealed till the building is restored as per the approved plan or removal of unauthorised portions or till the order is revoked.

Interestingly, the building was already sealed by Greater Chennai Corporation last year over property tax issues. It is learnt that the building was  issued a lock and seal notice in 2017 as it did not comply with fire safety provisions. It was in November 2022, that CMDA issued a deoccupation notice which was challenged by the Coffee shop owner, who lives as a tenant, in the Madras High Court.

The Madras High court granted the Coffee Shop owner three months time till April 30, 2023 to vacate the premises. Since the time given by Madras High court has lapsed, the Coffee Shop has been sealed.