A project called delay

Development of Sec 17

Numerous proposals have been mooted for Sector 17 over the years. While some were scrapped in the initial stages,others were given a go-ahead,but haven’t yielded results yet.

For example,the proposal to upgrade the area near the Bridge Market was approved in February 2008.

Last year,the contractor left the work midway. Tenders were floated again,but there was no response. After the project was allotted again,the contractor got involved in the cement scam and the tender had to be cancelled.

Now,the civic body is trying to execute part of the work on its own,but for some work tenders are likely to be floated again.

Multi-level parking lots

The civic body has plans to build multi-level parking lots in Sectors 17,9 and 35. But these plans remain plans.

The first such project approved for Sector 17 has not even started,three years after it was approved.

So far,the work to shift electricity cables from the site hasn’t been completed — a deadline has already lapsed. Only after this is done,work for the parking lot can begin.

Upgradation of Motor Market

A number of proposals have been announced to make the Motor Market in Manimajra look better. But that seems unlikely soon.

There were plans to construct platforms for mechanics and build parking lots — even Rs 5 crore was approved for the purpose — but there hasn’t been any progress. These proposals were mooted two years ago.

“The area has not seen any development. The plans have remained on paper,” president of the Motor Market Association B S Makol said.

Sehaj Safai Kendras

Sehaj Safai Kendras were to be built in all sectors to provide a central collection point for garbage and have bin-free sectors.

First,proper sites were not available and then some residents objected to the move. As a result,the vision of a bin-free Chandigarh remains unfulfilled.

Community parking lot

After completion,this project should have provided sufficient space in sectors to park vehicles. But the pilot project in Sector 19 has failed to take off.

Also,a proposal to have Food Streets at two more places was announced. But beyond laying the foundation stone of one in Sector 48,nothing has been achieved.

Foundation stone for a bridge was also laid in Manimajra in 2006. But work hasn’t started.

‘Penalise those responsible for delay’

Councillor Kamlesh says the elected members can approve the projects,but the officials have to ensure that they are completed. “There needs to be more accountability and responsibility. When the projects are delayed for long,the cost of construction increases manifold. Those who are responsible for the delay should be penalised,” she said.