Patna Municipal Corporation Greenlights PM Ekta Mall and Major Urban Development Initiatives
In a significant move for urban development, the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has officially issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the construction of the Prime Minister Ekta Bhawan, commonly referred to as PM Ekta Mall. This decision was made during the 20th meeting of the Empowered Standing Committee, chaired by Mayor Sita Sahu and Commissioner Yashpal Meena on Monday.
New Site and Strategic Vision for PM Ekta Mall
The previously approved site for the mall has been relocated to a PMC-owned plot near BD School at Buddha Colony, covering a total area of 3.39 acres. The structure will be built as a B+G+5 building under the One District, One Product (ODP) scheme, aimed at showcasing traditional products from all districts of Bihar, as well as from various states and union territories across India.
This initiative is designed to provide comprehensive marketing opportunities, thereby promoting local artisans, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs. By centralizing these products under one roof, the mall is expected to significantly boost the local economy and enhance cultural exchange.
Infrastructure and Water Supply Enhancements Approved
Alongside the mall approval, the committee passed several key infrastructure agendas to address urban challenges. To combat the impending summer water shortage, the installation of five submersible borings in each ward was approved, aiming to improve drinking water supply across the city.
Other critical works cleared include:
- Construction of a septic tank and soak pit, along with repair and painting of community toilets and boring work at Gai Ghat.
- Repair work at the Azimabad circle office to enhance administrative efficiency.
- Pipeline extension works under ward no. 16, road and drain construction in ward no. 30, and PCC road work in Rukanpura under ward no. 3.
- Installation of a high-yield tubewell at Bhawar Pokhar Park in ward no. 39 to support water resources.
Additional Approvals and Naming Initiative
The committee also approved the naming of the lane from 90-feet road to Ambedkar Chowk under ward no. 45 as Manas Mandir Path, adding a cultural touch to urban planning. Furthermore, compassionate ground appointments covering 37 applications from three previous meetings of the Compassionate Committee were cleared, addressing employment needs.
Strategic Discussions for Future Urban Management
During the meeting, extensive discussions were held on plans to tackle water shortages in various wards as summer approaches. Additionally, there was deliberation on selecting a new agency for tax assessment and revenue collection for buildings within the municipal area, aiming to streamline financial operations and enhance revenue generation.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including Deputy Mayor Reshmi Kumari, Additional Municipal Commissioners Rajan Sinha, Krishna Swaroop, and Vinay Kumar, along with members of the Empowered Standing Committee, ensuring a collaborative approach to these development initiatives.
