Palarivattom flyover: Vigilance alleges conspiracy to save contractor

Kochi: The state Vigilance department alleged that the contractor and top level officials were involved in a deep conspiracy in connection with Palarivattom flyover construction.

The information was gathered after quizzing the accused in the case including former Public Works Department secretary T.O. Sooraj, Sumith Goyal, the managing director of RDS Projects, the contracting company, Benny Paul -KITCO joint general manager and MT Thankachan - for additional general manager of Roads and Bridges Development Corporation.

The custody period of the accused lapsed on Thursday. The bail plea of the accused will be considered by Muvattupuzha Vigilance court on Friday.

Vigilance has found that Sumith Goyal, conspired with top officials to get Rs. 8.25 crores in advance, who faced a financial crunch.

RDS was allowed the amount for an interest of seven per cent after a meeting involving Sooraj, Benny Paul and Thankachan, who misused their position. However, at the meeting, the other contractors were informed by Thankachan that advance funds were not allowed.   Had it been otherwise, other contractors would have taken up the project.

Thankachan committed irregularities in the register to get RDS the tender. The fact that the company cannot find the required fund for the project was not considered.

RDS was granted the project thought they failed to produce documents proving their excellence in the construction sector.

Thankachan advised and supported Sumith to apply for advance fund. As Sumith utilised the advance amount to settle his financial liabilities, construction of the bridge was affected.

Benny Paul, who was entrusted to supervise the project, committed serious lapses in delivering n his duty.