Khanna Traders Voice Infrastructure Concerns in High-Level Meeting
Traders and shopkeepers operating in the bustling Khanna main market have escalated their grievances regarding critical infrastructure deficiencies during a pivotal meeting with Dharminder Singh Roopraiye, a member of the Punjab Trade Commission. The gathering, held in Ludhiana, highlighted a series of pressing issues that are adversely affecting business operations and customer accessibility in the commercial hub.
Key Infrastructure Challenges Raised by Market Stakeholders
The traders articulated several specific concerns that demand immediate governmental intervention. Foremost among these is the hazardous presence of loose electricity wires throughout the market, posing significant safety risks to both shopkeepers and the visiting public. Additionally, participants underscored an inadequate security apparatus, citing a severe shortage of functional street lights which compromises safety after dusk and discourages evening footfall.
To bolster security, the business community has formally requested continuous patrolling by Police Control Room (PCR) vehicles to deter criminal activities and ensure a safer trading environment. Another major demand put forth involves the construction of a dedicated service road along the adjacent highway. This infrastructure project is deemed essential to ease customer access to the market, potentially boosting commercial activity and reducing traffic congestion in the area.
Official Response and Assurances for Prompt Resolution
In response to these urgent appeals, Dharminder Singh Roopraiye provided firm assurances to the trader delegation. He committed to taking up all the flagged issues directly with Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond, emphasizing that resolution would be treated as a high-priority matter for the state administration.
Demonstrating a proactive approach, Roopraiye issued directives to officials from multiple key departments, instructing them to address the traders' problems without delay. The officials summoned include representatives from:
- The Municipal Council, Khanna
- Local Police authorities
- Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL)
- Labour Department
- Goods and Services Tax (GST) Department
- Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB)
- Food Supply Department
This cross-departmental directive aims to foster a coordinated effort in tackling the multifaceted infrastructure challenges, from electrical safety and public security to regulatory and supply chain concerns impacting the trading community.
The meeting signifies a critical step in bridging the gap between local business needs and administrative action, with stakeholders hopeful for tangible improvements that will revitalize the Khanna market's infrastructure and secure its commercial future.
