Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, May 23: A team from the Karnataka Lokayukta, Mangaluru Division, conducted a surprise inspection at the Pilikula development authority premises on Friday and uncovered several administrative irregularities.

The inspection was led by Lokayukta deputy superintendents of police Dr Gana P Kumar and Suresh Kumar P, along with police inspectors Bharathi G and Chandrashekar K N, who were accompanied by supporting staff.

During the inspection, the team observed that although the zoo at Pilikula generates significant revenue, the authority has failed to reinvest funds for its development. It was also noted that the zoo staff are being paid low wages and are not being provided with any health benefits.

Despite prior orders to hand over the management of the zoo to the forest department, the authority has delayed the transfer without valid justification. The team also found that the authority has not been collecting dues from certain organisations that have been leased properties within the premises.

Irregularities were also found in the tendering process. The Lokayukta officials have gathered relevant documents and evidence, and a detailed report will be submitted to the Lokayukta central office, said Kumarachandra, in-charge superintendent of police, Karnataka Lokayukta, Mangaluru Division.