Ludhiana Senior Deputy Mayor Challenges Rs 8.46 Crore Rose Garden Beautification Tender
Senior Deputy Mayor of Ludhiana, Rakesh Prashar, has raised strong objections to a recently floated tender worth Rs 8.46 crore for the beautification of the city's Rose Garden. The tender, issued last week, is scheduled to be opened on February 9, 2026, but Prashar plans to meet the newly appointed Municipal Corporation (MC) Commissioner, Dr Neeru Katyal Gupta, to challenge the move.
Excessive Costs and Missing Accountability
Prashar has voiced concerns over what he describes as excessive expenditure, particularly highlighting that Rs 3.29 crore is allocated solely for horticulture work. In a letter sent in December 2025 to the former MC Commissioner, Aaditya Dachalwal, he pointed out that the tender lacks clear provisions for contractor responsibilities and maintenance. "I support beautification projects, but the amount is excessive. The horticulture allocation alone needs stronger accountability," Prashar stated.
Alternative Proposal to Save Funds
Prashar has proposed an alternative approach to fund the beautification, suggesting that maintenance could be entrusted to companies through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. He cited the example of Rakh Bagh, where such partnerships have been successful. "Several large companies in Ludhiana are already undertaking beautification of parks, central verges, and roundabouts under CSR. Engaging these firms would save the Corporation's funds," he explained. This, he argued, would allow the Rs 8.46 crore to be redirected towards essential ward-level development works, benefiting local communities more directly.
Officials Defend Tender Decision
Despite Prashar's objections, the Building and Roads (B&R) branch proceeded with floating the tender, utilizing funds from the Smart City Mission. Officials from the B&R branch have defended their actions, stating that the tender was issued following orders from the then Municipal Commissioner, which were in turn based on directives from the state government. "The tender was floated only after receiving proper authorization from higher authorities," a B&R official noted.
Criticism and Planned Meeting with New Commissioner
Prashar has criticized the officials for disregarding his written communication, questioning their commitment to public accountability. "If they disregard the Senior Deputy Mayor, how will they treat the public?" he remarked. He plans to bring these concerns to Dr Neeru Katyal Gupta, who was recently appointed as the MC Commissioner. Commissioner Gupta has responded by saying, "Prashar hasn't approached me yet. I'll review the details once he does."
Detailed Breakdown of the Beautification Plan
The proposed beautification project includes a comprehensive breakdown of costs:
- Civil works: Rs 1.32 crore
- Lighting and electrical upgrades: Rs 2.15 crore
- Horticulture: Rs 3.29 crore
- New water tank: Rs 21.4 lakh
- Irrigation system: Rs 85.62 lakh
- Kids' play zone: Rs 19.82 lakh
- Open gym: Rs 5.67 lakh
- Testing: Rs 4.21 lakh (0.5% of estimate)
- Toilet block: Rs 32.06 lakh
This detailed plan underscores the scale of the project, which Prashar believes could be executed more cost-effectively through alternative funding mechanisms.
