The state tourism department refuses to learn from its mistakes, with the latest gaffe concerning the floating restaurant near the Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL). After being hastily inaugurated almost a year ago by then tourism minister Chhagan Bhujbal, apparently due to the approaching election code of conduct, the project continues to remain a distant dream.
The state tourism department refuses to learn from its mistakes, with the latest gaffe concerning the floating restaurant near the Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL). After being hastily inaugurated almost a year ago by then tourism minister Chhagan Bhujbal, apparently due to the approaching election code of conduct, the project continues to remain a distant dream.
dna found that the inordinate delay in starting the floatel is because of wrong planning and error in judgement of MTDC officials and the private operator. The officials had anticipated a need for 60-65 parking slots for those visiting the restaurant, but later realised that space for 150 vehicles would be required.
“We expect the service to start soon, talks are on at an advanced stage with the entities who can provide space for valet parking in nearby areas,” Paraag Jaiin Nainuttia, MD, MTDC told dna.
MTDC had in the past done similar goof-ups which had cost the government losses of crores of rupees. In one such case, which was highlighted by dna, MTDC, had planned to buy five of the smaller Volvo 9,400 coaches for promotion of tourism in Konkan region, for which it had received a quotation of Rs3.82 crore. However, later, five multi-axle Volvo buses were bought at a cost of Rs5.41 crore without even waiting for the feasibility report. This was done despite knowing that the roads in the hilly Konkan area are narrow and it would be difficult to manoeuvre the long multi-axle buses. Based on dna's reports, a PIL on it has been filed in the Bombay high court.
In another case, at least 55 of the 100 electronic kiosks, bought for over Rs1.5 crore in 2012 by MTDC turned into junk after they were rendered useless due to poor planning. The kiosks, which were to be placed at strategic locations, were for disseminating information to tourists.
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