(a) the date on which the multi-purpose jetty at Integrated Fisheries Project at Kochi was completed;
(b) the initial estimated cost when the jetty project was conceived and the total amount spent when completed;
(c) whether any internal audit was undertaken;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the action initiated against the persons responsible?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (DR. DEBENDRA PRADHAN)
(a) to ( e): A sum of Rs.1.50 lakhs was paid to Cochin Port Trust for preparation of design and estimate of a new multipurpose jetty to be constructed at Integrated Fisheries Project, Kochi. Further, a sum of Rs. 2.32 lakhs was also paid to Cochin Port Trust for preparation of techno-economic feasibility report and soil investigation for construction of the proposed jetty. After receipt of project estimates from Cochin Port Trust the proposal was examined in the Ministry and it was decided not to go for construction of jetty and the proposal was dropped. The estimated cost for construction of the jetty was projected as Rs. 146.91 lakhs. Local Audit while auditing accounts of Integrated Fisheries Project, Kochi for the year 1995-96 observed that the expenditure of Rs.3.82 lakhs incurred for preparation of design, estimates, soil investigation, etc. appears to be infructuous. The factual position of the case has been intimated to the Local Audit by Integrated Fisheries Project, Kochi with a request to drop the audit objection.