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Title : Need to check the quality of material being used in the construction of International Trade Centre building at Karimganj, Assam.
SHRI LALIT MOHAN SUKLABAIDYA (KARIMGANJ): An International Trade Centre (ITC) is supposed to provide assistance to the exporters and importers, which has the potential of creating new entrepreneurs and open new avenues of employment in related sectors. My experience from the visit of the ITC – three storey building in Sutarkandi under Karimganj is shocking . One portion of the gate and one wall of the godown had to be rebuilt as the original construction has collapsed. The walls of the main building have already developed cracks in vital areas. The surface of the “Transhipment Platform” already sank more that 6” inches. I understand the ITC will house Custom Office, Post Office, Bank, Conference Hall and one Exhibition Hall for use of the importers and exporters, of both countries. However, in view of the very poor standard of construction, which is evident from these incidents of collapses and craks, it is strongly suggested that before the building is officially opened for operation, an expert opinion from competent civil engineers should be obtained regarding its safety and use. Otherwise, there are chances of mishaps, which might even cause loss of human lives and property leading to not only huge financial loss of the Government but also raise question about the transparency of the whole affairs, which may collapse the whole prospects of International Trade and Commerce of this North East region.