The financial and administrative woes of the Mohali Municipal Corporation (MC) have been starkly highlighted as the civic body was forced to use vehicles and machinery from the neighbouring Chandigarh Municipal Corporation to carry out essential tree pruning work within its limits. This unusual arrangement has drawn sharp criticism from local councillors, who point to a severe fund crunch and administrative apathy.
A Costly Machine Turned 'White Elephant'
Councillors revealed a troubling paradox: while the Mohali MC had invested in an expensive tree-pruning machine, the equipment is rarely used and has become a "white elephant." When pressed on why the machine remains idle, officials reportedly stated that the corporation lacks even the basic funds required to refuel its own vehicles. This admission has forced the civic work to be managed through "recommendations and makeshift arrangements," raising serious questions about governance and planning.
The situation, unfolding as of December 27, 2025, is not just an administrative failure but also a direct cause of hardship for residents. Tree pruning has been neglected in several Mohali areas for an extended period. During the winter season, dry and weak branches pose a significant risk of falling during strong winds or rain, creating a serious public safety hazard.
Councillors Voice Frustration and Safety Concerns
Elected representatives from across the city have expressed their anger and concern. AAP councillor from Phase 7, Anuradha Anand, accused officials of deliberate inaction. "Despite repeated requests for pruning, officers keep avoiding the issue," she said, adding that an official explicitly told her the MC had no money for fuel.
Phase 9 councillor Kamalpreet Singh Banny shared that residents in his ward suffered for nearly a month before a pruning machine finally arrived. Phase 5 councillor Baljeet Kaur echoed similar sentiments, stating complaints are consistently ignored.
The councillors collectively demanded greater transparency from the administration. "If the corporation lacks resources, it should clearly inform the elected representatives so that alternative arrangements can be explored," they stated. They also raised a critical safety question: "If an accident occurs during pruning under such ad-hoc arrangements, who will be held responsible?"
Official Responses and Resident Distress
When contacted, Chandigarh Municipal Commissioner Amit Kumar said the issue was new to him. "This has come to my notice for the first time through your query. I will order a detailed inquiry and ensure appropriate action," he stated. In contrast, Mohali Municipal Commissioner Parminder Pal Singh Sandhu claimed he was unaware of any pruning work being done using Chandigarh's machinery. "This is not in my knowledge. If such activity is taking place, the matter will be checked," Sandhu said.
Meanwhile, residents lament the breakdown of basic services. They allege that despite paying their taxes, they are forced to struggle for fundamental civic amenities like safe and clean neighbourhoods, highlighting a growing trust deficit between the public and the civic administration. The incident underscores a deeper crisis of resource management and accountability within the Mohali Municipal Corporation.
