Mahender cracks whip on Tohas to recover Rs 100-cr assets

With timely intervention of Transport Minister P Mahender Reddy, Rs 100 crore assets and lands recovered by keeping a tab on irregularities by Tohas (Truck Operators Highway Amenities Society). Irregularities were checked and recovered Rs 100 crore assets and lands near the city.

According to a statement, the minister intervened and prevented the land and assets from being misused. Officials held two rounds of meetings with the association members and found irregularities. The minister warned them of stringent action against irregularities with regard to lands and assets of the government.

It may be recalled that with the Centre’s help, the State government gave 9.37 acres land and Rs 25 lakh for providing rest room with parking place for truck drivers in 1987 under the chairmanship of then Transport Commissioner. Related association which looks into the land and parking place has created a bogus company and offered some land for 33-year lease against norms in the name secretary’s son.

Also the association reportedly swindled Rs 40.17 lakh funds. On coming to know of the irregularities, Mahendar Reddy directed filing of criminal cases against those who were involved in the scam. He had also instructed to recover assets, land and funds from those who were involved in the murky episode. Mahender Reddy also instructed Principal Secretary of Transport Department Sunil Sharma to keep a vigil on Tohas against any possible irregularities of land and assets offered on lease in other districts.(NSS)