Imphal, February 04: Construction work of the much hyped Cultural Complex will begin at Konung Mamang before March 31, informed a high ranking official of the Arts and Culture Dept.

Speaking to The Sangai Express yesterday, the official informed that the National Building Construction Corporation (NBCC) is not likely to get the contracts for the construction as the State Govt is opposed to any plans to hand over the construction works to NBCC.

The proposed cultural complex will be built large enough to host round table conferences which can be attended by the Indian Prime Minister or heads of other foreign countries, said the official.

Even though no architectural design of the proposed complex has been finalised the State Govt is making all efforts to bring out the design within the shortest possible time, said the official adding that the complex which will include a round table conference hall having a 800 seat capacity will require 5 acres for the complex.

It may be noted here that total area of the cultural complex presently reserved by the Govt is only 3 acres.

Informing that the State Govt has already begun necessary process for acquiring the necessary two acres from the surrounding areas, the official said that no private houses or office buildings will be allowed inside the complex and all such buildings will be acquired through the Govt's "Land Acquisition Act" and added that necessary steps for acquiring the necessary plot will be taken up very soon.

Official notices have also been issued to owners of private buildings and offices regarding the matter, said the official.

The proposed Cultural Complex which is expected to be completed within two years is estimated to cost Rs 15 crores, said the official adding that Rs 10 crores will be borne by the State Govt while the remaining will be funded by the Central Govt.The State's share will be deducted from the State's budget annually.

Commenting on the State Govt's opposition to hand over the construction works to the NBCC, the official said that discussions are on to hand over the construction works to another reputed firm as the numerous designs put forward by the NBCC authorities have failed not met the expectations of the State Government.

However reports received by the press suggests that NBCC officials have refused to carry out the construction works due to unstable law and order condition and financial instability of the State Govt.

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