BJP spokesperson Suresh Pujari on Friday demanded that the State Government initiate criminal proceedings against Water Resources Department officials soon over the Hirakud reservoir boat tragedy in which 31 persons killed on February 9.
Addressing the mediapersons here, Pujari said, “As the boatman has been arrested, the officials of the Water Resource department should also charged for the negligence.” Pointing out that Department is the licensing authority for the ferry service in the reservoir, he said criminal proceedings should be initiated soon against the concerned officials. He said the arrest of boatman was a farce.
Pujari also alleged that the district administration were also responsible for the incident. “The Works Department certify passenger capacity of the boat. Similarly, the Commerce and Transport Department should check the fitness and safety measures of the boat,” he added. Informing that the boat service in Hirakud Dam reservoir has been stopped after the accident, he demanded the State Government make alternative arrangement for transportation of the people to the other side of the reservoir. He also demanded that a bridge over the reservoir be constructed soon for the purpose.