Fund-starved state sanctions Rs 85 lakh to buy vehicles for VIP guests

The General Administration Department (GAD) of Maharashtra government has sanctioned '80 lakh to purchase vehicles for VIPs who visit Mumbai. The vehicles include three Skoda cars and two Innovas. However, the opposition has criticised the government, questioning it if the purchase is really necessary at a time when the state is facing a financial dip.

In a government resolution (GR) dated January 12, the GAD has declared to purchase three Skoda cars for Rs 50,11,620 (each costing Rs 16,70,540). Two Innovas are also to be purchased for Rs 30,65,262 (each costing Rs 15,32,661). The total amount of Rs 80,76,882 has been sanctioned by the finance department, the GR stated.

The vehicles are for the state guests and VIPs visiting Mumbai on official tour. The government transport service, which comes under the GAD, provides vehicles to the guests. The GAD reviewed a demand of 54 vehicles for the guests of which 17 vehicles were sanctioned last year. It included 15 D.V. cars, one medium toeing van and one bus.

Reacting to the GR, a GAD official who did not wish to be named, said it was a routine process. “It is necessary to have vehicles of particular standards for the state guests. This is a routine process,” he said. However, Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant criticised the government for this “unnecessary” expenditure. “The state should avoid unnecessary expenditure. It has been noted the finance department has cut down on a few schemes for lack of funds. In such a case, the expenditure should be carefully carried out,” he said.