Ludhiana Municipal Committee Approves 211 Resolutions in High-Speed Session
In a high-speed session aimed at bypassing looming electoral deadlocks, the Finance and Contracts Committee (F&CC) of the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation (MC) approved a staggering 211 resolutions on Thursday. The meeting, held at the Mayor's camp office, was convened to expedite work orders for critical infrastructure projects across the city.
Political Pressure Drives Rapid Approvals
Sources indicate that while committee members initially aimed to clear 100 resolutions, "political bosses" intervened, directing the body to approve the entire slate. With the state fast approaching an election phase, ruling party MLAs are reportedly pushing for visible development to leverage during their upcoming campaigns.
Focus on Infrastructure and Special Schemes
A primary focus of the meeting was the city's deteriorating road network. Officials emphasised that if construction does not commence shortly, the "pathetic" condition of the streets will continue to pose significant hardships for the public. Notably, the committee approved work orders for five additional projects under the special assistance scheme, bringing the total number of active projects in this category to 13.
During the deliberations, members proposed a strategic shift in funding, suggesting that works originally slated under the general quota be moved to the councillor quota.
Special Assistance Scheme Moves Forward
The meeting's highlight was the Special Assistance Scheme proposal which had been stuck for weeks. Around 20 tenders were floated for road strengthening and recarpeting in the city. Earlier, work orders for eight projects had been given clearance. On Thursday, five more were approved, making the count 13.
Of the remaining projects, four were re-tendered on Wednesday evening after seeking legal opinion and the last tender's pending issues will be discussed on Friday, paving the way for the scheme to move forward.
Officials Confirm Development Push
Senior deputy mayor Rakesh Prashar confirmed the frantic pace of the approvals, stating that residents will soon witness large-scale development. "We gave approval to all works at the work order stage," Prashar said. He added that while officials have been instructed to begin work immediately to beat the election code, they have also been strictly directed to ensure that the quality of construction is not compromised in the rush.
