Patna Municipal Corporation Greenlights Major Urban Development Initiatives
The empowered standing committee of the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has taken a significant step toward urban transformation by approving 69 comprehensive development proposals during its 20th meeting held on Friday. This decisive action covers multiple aspects of city infrastructure, from riverfront beautification to critical water system upgrades.
Riverfront Development and Urban Beautification
The committee has approved ambitious plans to develop riverfront stretches along the Ganges, specifically from Naujar Ghat to Didarganj and from Collectorate Ghat to Digha. These areas will be transformed with comprehensive amenities including modern lighting systems, public parks, dedicated pedestrian walkways, and extensive green belts to enhance both aesthetics and functionality.
Additionally, the PMC has cleared proposals for landscaping major roads throughout the city and preparing detailed project reports for the redevelopment of the historic New Market area. These initiatives aim to create more organized and visually appealing urban spaces for residents and visitors alike.
Infrastructure and Public Facility Upgrades
Several critical infrastructure projects received approval, including the modernization of public toilets across the city and the construction of five model toilets, for which a progress report was presented and operational responsibilities were finalized. The committee also approved the appointment of a private agency to handle tax assessment and revenue recovery, aiming to improve municipal financial management.
Other significant approvals include the construction of a new shopping mall on Arya Kumar Road, modernization of electric crematoriums at Khajekalan and Gulbi Ghat, and repairs to the animal electric crematorium at Ramchak Bairiya. The PMC also cleared budget provisions for the 2025-26 fiscal year covering roads, drains, underground sewerage systems, and eco-friendly solid waste management solutions.
Water Infrastructure and Flood Management
Addressing perennial water challenges, the corporation has devised a comprehensive strategy to prevent water scarcity during the summer months. This includes deploying twenty-five specialized gangmen teams, each comprising four members, to resolve pipeline complaints across the city, with each team assigned responsibility for three municipal wards.
The committee approved pipeline installation at eighty strategic locations and gave the green light to high-yield boring projects to augment water supply. To combat waterlogging, drainage system strengthening has been prioritized, and "Manhole Ambulances" will be made operational to ensure rapid response to drainage issues.
Furthermore, the PMC has initiated the hiring of consultants specifically for urban flood management, recognizing the increasing challenges posed by monsoon seasons in the growing city.
Leadership Commitment to Timely Execution
Mayor Sita Sahu emphasized the corporation's commitment to quality and speed in project implementation, stating, "PMC's goal is to complete development projects with speed and high quality to transform Patna into a clean, organized, and modern city."
PMC Commissioner Yashpal Meena reinforced this commitment, assuring that "execution of all approved proposals will be ensured within the stipulated timeframe. Through regular monitoring, we will ensure that the benefits of these projects reach the citizens promptly."
The meeting was attended by Deputy Mayor Reshmi Kumari and other committee members, who collectively reviewed and approved these wide-ranging development initiatives under various programs including Swachh Survekshan, city beautification, community hall construction, and park renovation projects.
