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JALANDHAR
In a significant push for rural development, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal on Wednesday set result-oriented targets for the next quarter, instructing various departments to expedite key infrastructure and environmental projects across villages.
Chairing a review meeting at the District Administrative Complex, Dr. Aggarwal prioritized playground construction, pond rejuvenation, irrigation improvements, and solid waste management. Reflecting upon directives issued by Punjab Government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Deputy Commissioner has directed the Sub Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) to ensure that every village has a new playground, seeking a detailed project report for 890 panchayats to develop ultra-modern sports facilities. He has sought acre wise project report for model playgrounds in villages, hence making Jalandhar a frontrunner district in the field of spots as it is famous as a sports capital of the state.
Reiterating Punjab Government commitment to making villages developed like cities equipped with all facilities, the Deputy Commissioner instructed officials to commence the cleaning and rejuvenation of all 1,086 pounds in the district. Additionally, he sought proposals for constructing five new ponds in each block following the Thapar/Seechewal model to enhance water conservation.
Focusing on irrigation efficiency, Dr. Aggarwal emphasized the need for a proper mechanism to supply treated water from ponds and sewage treatment plants (STPs) to farmers. Similarly, he instructed officials to submit proposals for village-level parks to enhance green spaces.
Recognizing solid waste management as a top priority, the DC directed the implementation of waste collection, segregation, and disposal projects across the district. Citing the successful models in Dayalpur, Authala, and Rurkan Kalan villages, he urged officials to replicate these projects district-wide. To incentivize progress, panchayats successfully implementing solid waste management will receive a reward of Rs.One lakh as development funds.
Highlighting the importance of forestation, Dr. Aggarwal directed SDMs to identify government land for developing Miyawaki forests, which would increase green cover and transform the district’s landscape. He reaffirmed the Punjab Government’s commitment under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to develop villages at par with cities, ensuring holistic and sustainable growth. He categorically mentioned that any kind of callousness in this task will be highly unwarranted as he will conduct personal monitoring on these projects. He further mentioned that there was no shortage of funds for these projects, therefore timely execution must be ensured by the departments concerned.