‘Transport,heritage priority for development’

Addressing mediapersons,Sharma,along with other officials of the UT Administration,highlighted several issues being faced by the city. The officials,however,did not comment on the controversies surrounding mega projects in the city — most of which have been shelved.

Transport facilities

According to Sharma,the RITES report has made a few recommendations pertaining to introduce a dedicated bus lane on some roads and preparing a detailed project report (DPR) for the Metro Rail. While work on the DPR has begun,it is being looked into whether it will be feasible to have dedicated bus lanes. The Punjab Engineering College will be associated with the project,along with expertise available from Chandigarh as well as outside,he added. Inputs will also be taken from the engineering wing and the police.

The UT Adviser went on to say that there was a need to reduce pressure on the city roads,which receive traffic from adjoining states as well. “There is a need to have multiple modes of transportation. Once there are dedicated lanes,the movement of traffic becomes smoother,” he said. Regarding stopping of heavy vehicles plying on the Panchkula-Chandigarh road,Sharma he said matter will be looked into.

Urban planning

There is a need for integrated planning of the Tricity and the three administrations — Chandigarh,Punjab and Haryana — need to work together,said Sharma. Whatever happens in Panchkula and Mohali has an impact on Chandigarh,he added.

Sukhna Lake

The Adviser said the city is always concerned about the Sukhna Lake. Apart from desilting that is regularly being carried out at the lake,expertise will be sought from the Central Botanical Institute in regard to the weeding problem. The National Institute of Hydrology will be asked as to what needs to be done in the lake’s catchment area — whether more check dams are required.

Transfer of Villages

No decision has been taken regarding the transfer of villages from the UT Administration to the Municipal Corporation. The stakeholders will be asked their opinion before a final decision is taken,said Sharma.