We previously wrote about how despite the state government’s sanction of Rs 34 crore two years ago for a new criminal court after the old one was demolished in 2005, it is yet to come up in the city. Advocates were facing problems with the money not being released, causing them trouble regarding ventilation, sanitation and seating. After a wait that lasted over years, the foundation stone was finally laid for the new court complex yesterday.
The Rs 30 crore court complex at the district court premises will house different courts in four floors, with two other floors allotted for parking. Principal District Judge PV Jyothirmayee laid the foundation stone for the new complex while building Contractor AV Mohan Reddy performed the bhoomi puja. Heads of various religions were also present at the site to offer prayers.
The Visakhapatnam Bar Association has reportedly played a key role in protecting the site since 2005. The entire court complex will come up on 2.78 acres with the area of the new building consisting of 1,39,000 sft. The first phase of the complex is expected to reach completion within one and half years with 5000-6000 people visiting the complex daily. After the completion of the structure, there is also a plan to add on two more floors.
The district court premises consist of 44 courts, some of which will be shifted to the new building once it reaches completion. Besides the District Judge, Vizag Bar Association President NV Suman, former Presidents MK Sitaramaiah and Kandala Srinivasa Rao, Metropolitan Sessions Judge U Satya Rao, President of Non-Judicial Employees’ Union K T N Prabhu and other senior advocates were present at the foundation stone laying ceremony.
A committee will soon be formed to monitor the construction work, headed by the District Judge and Chief Engineer of Road and Buildings KV Ramana Reddy will supervise the work.
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