JALANDHAR
Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal today emphasized that departments must ensure strictcompliance with the Standing Operating Procedure (SOP) while carrying out road excavation. He clearly stated that if the SOP is not followed during excavation work, strict action will be taken against the concerned department. While presiding over a meeting with officials of various departments at the District Administrative Complex, the Deputy Commissioner directed the officers that whenever road excavation is to be carried out, the concerned department must ensure SOP compliance. If there are any sewer lines, cables, or other pipelines beneath the road, accurate mapping should be done beforehand. He instructed the departments that only after completing the mapping process should excavation be initiated. During excavation, the concerned department must install awareness boards at the site for public convenience, mentioning “Work in Progress,” the name of the department, and the expected completion date of the work. He issued strict directions to the departments that restoring the dug-up road within the stipulated time frame will be the responsibility of the concerned department. He said that negligence in this work will not be tolerated, and appropriate action will be taken against the responsible officials in case of carelessness. While presiding over an awareness meeting regarding the risks posed to gas pipelines due to unknown excavation activities, the Deputy Commissioner also stressed the importance of following safety protocols to prevent gas leaks and accidents. Instructing the Municipal Corporation, he said that complete information regarding excavation activities in the corporation area must be maintained. He also emphasized the need for better coordination among departments so that the public does not face any inconvenience. Officials from Jalandhar Municipal Corporation, Rural Development and Panchayats, and various other departments, along with Think Gas representatives, were present during the meeting.