Zirakpur civic body to soon get corporation status

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Mohali: Punjab local government minister Dr Ravjot Singh announced the elevation of Zirakpur municipal council as municipal corporation. The minister, who made the announcement during a surprise visit on early Thursday morning, also ordered an immediate civic clean-up and improvement drive in the town.
Dr Ravjot emphasized that the rapid urban expansion of Zirakpur requires a larger, more empowered civic body to ensure effective governance, improved sanitation, reliable water supply, and systematic urban planning. He urged MLA Kuljit Singh Randhawa to submit a formal proposal through the municipal council to initiate the official upgrade process, which will take effect from the upcoming municipal corporation elections.
The minister expressed serious concern over the poor condition of civic infrastructure, particularly highlighting the choked Sukhna Choe, and directed officials to take swift action before the monsoon. He instructed the drainage department to assist the municipal council in clearing the choe and warned residents against dumping waste that could block water flow and cause flooding.
As part of the city's infrastructure upgrade, the minister confirmed the installation of two sewage treatment plants (STPs) — one of 47 MLD capacity at Sanauli, where land has already been handed over to the Water Supply and Sewerage Board, and another 37 MLD plant, for which land identification is currently underway.
Additionally, a high-level bridge costing Rs 5.96 crore has been proposed on the Sukhna Choe at Baltana to manage seasonal overflows.
During his visit, Dr Singh inspected several areas, including Baltana Furniture Market, Old Kalka Road, and Dhakauli, where he instructed local officials to deploy additional manpower to ensure citywide cleanliness. "The deteriorating condition of roads and public spaces is unacceptable," he said, adding that Zirakpur must reflect the aspirations of its fast-growing population.
When MLA Randhawa raised the issue of stormwater discharge from Panchkula causing flooding in Peer Muchhalla, the minister directed top officials in the local government department to coordinate with authorities from the neighbouring state for a swift resolution.
Dr Singh said, "As per the directions of chief minister, we are focused on ensuring that basic civic amenities are delivered efficiently. Accountability will be fixed in case of any negligence by local officers."
The minister concluded by promising traffic reforms and better urban planning to decongest Zirakpur's roads and enhance quality of life for its residents.

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