The post of assistant consolidation officer (ACO) has been lying vacant since a long time paralyzing normal functioning of the land consolidation (Chakabandi) office here.
Most importantly, the employees of the department have not been able to get their salary since January last.Vacancy of the ACO post has created a major problem for the locals who find it difficult to sell or purchase their Chakabandi land. Although the sub-collector, Bargarh, has been given additional charge of ACO, yet he is not able to give ample time for the additional duty.The sub-collector cannot visit the office even for a day as a result of which a large number of files are lying pending there without disposal. The employees of the department are leading a miserable life without salary.
Numerous complaints with the district Collector pertaining to the problem have proved vain. The villagers of Ruhunia, Tora and adjoining areas have been the worst sufferers. The locals have threatened to take to the streets if the administration does not sort out the problem soon, said sources.