PANAJI
The State government constituted Task Force Committee conducted preliminary inspection of the renovated Kala Academy complex on Monday, wherein they came across issues related to sound system and air conditioners (ACs).
The Committee will hold its first meeting on Tuesday to suggest necessary recommendations for improvement and upgradation of the iconic structure.
The committee, headed by Theatre Artist Vijay Kenkre held the inspection to review the status of infrastructure work of the Kala Academy, whose renovation work has been mired with alleged corruption charges.
Speaking to media persons post meeting, Kenkre said that during the preliminary inspection, the committee observed issues related to sound system and functioning of ACs. “These are minor issues and can be rectified,” he said, adding that the committee will conduct more inspections in coming days to reach a concrete decision.
“So far, we have not come across any major issues,” he added.
He said that Kala Academy is one of the best institutes in India and the committee will make efforts to preserve this iconic structure. “In tomorrow's meeting we will discuss all the observations and also seek suggestions and comments from all members,” Kenkre said.
Stating that the Public Works Department official was present during the inspection, Kenkre said that the contractor would be summoned to be part of next inspection.
The committee is constituted ahead of the International Film Festival of India, scheduled in November when the premises will be used for film screenings, talk shows, exhibitions and other related events. IAS officer and Education Secretary Prasad Lolayekar has been appointed as the nodal officer to facilitate coordination between the government and the committee.
The Committee has to review all repairs and renovation changes carried out till date, check present supply or works carried out satisfactorily and to recommend changes, wherever necessary.
Chief Engineer of PWD Santosh Mhapne serves as Member Secretary of the committee which includes Tomazinho Cardozo, William Fernandes, Praveen Gaonkar, Satish Gawas, Devidas Amonkar, Francis Coelho, a representative from the Charles Correia Foundation, the Chief Architect of PWD, the Member Secretary of Kala Academy and Mrunal Walke, General Manager of ESG as its members.
The Kala Academy building was renovated at a cost of Rs 56 crore and the allegation was of Rs 49 crore scam.
