Mohali's 11-Year Struggle Culminates in Approval for Modern Old Age Home
In a significant development for senior citizens in Mohali, the Punjab government has granted approval for the construction of a modern Old Age Home, marking the end of an 11-year legal battle. This decision comes after sustained efforts led by Deputy Mayor Kuljit Singh Bedi, who has been advocating for dignified care for the elderly through High Court proceedings.
Land Allocation and Project Details
Addressing the media on Tuesday, Deputy Mayor Bedi announced that the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) will provide three acres of land free of cost for this crucial project. The facility is designed to accommodate approximately 150 senior citizens, offering them a family-like environment with comprehensive healthcare and daily living amenities.
The proposed Old Age Home will be developed as a modern campus spread across the three-acre plot. Bedi emphasized that the design and facilities will be modeled after the successful Old Age Home at Tapa Mandi, which has received widespread appreciation for its infrastructure and services. This approach ensures proven standards of care and operational efficiency.
Addressing Social Isolation Among Elderly
Deputy Mayor Bedi highlighted the pressing issue of loneliness faced by many senior citizens in Mohali, particularly those whose children have settled abroad or in other cities. He stated, "The upcoming facility will not merely be a shelter, but a secure social support system, ensuring a dignified and safe life for the elderly." This initiative aims to transform the lives of vulnerable seniors by providing both physical care and emotional companionship.
Comprehensive Facilities and Services
The Old Age Home will offer an extensive range of services to ensure holistic well-being for residents:
- 24×7 ambulance services and emergency medical care
- Regular health check-ups and physiotherapy facilities
- Free meals, ration, newspapers, and recreational amenities
- Fully secured campus with surveillance systems
- Separate residential arrangements for staff to ensure round-the-clock care
Bedi connected this project to broader legislative efforts, noting that it aligns with the spirit of the 2007 legislation introduced during former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's tenure, which aimed at ensuring welfare and institutional care for senior citizens.
Legal Journey and Future Commitment
The Deputy Mayor revealed that following his petition before the High Court, the Punjab government had previously constructed Old Age Homes at Tapa and other locations. Mohali's inclusion in this process represents a major victory for the city's senior citizens. Bedi asserted his commitment to ensuring the project moves beyond announcements to timely completion with all promised facilities.
"Until the building is fully constructed and operational, my struggle will continue," Bedi declared, emphasizing his determination to see the project through to fruition. The press conference was attended by prominent senior citizens including Brigadier Jagdev Singh (President, Senior Citizens Association Mohali), R P Vig, Gurmeet Singh Siaan, Ajab Singh Bakarpur, Gurpreet Singh, and Gurvinder Singh Bains (C-Cell), reflecting broad community support for this initiative.
This development represents not just infrastructure creation but a fundamental shift in how society cares for its elderly population, setting a precedent for other cities to follow in addressing the needs of aging citizens with compassion and comprehensive support systems.
