Chandigarh Municipal Corporation Takes Strict Action Against Horticulture Official
The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation has taken decisive action by suspending a senior horticulture official following the discovery of serious deficiencies in the maintenance of a key public garden. This move underscores the administration's commitment to upholding standards in public spaces.
Inspection Reveals Gross Neglect at Shivalik Garden
During a routine inspection conducted earlier in the day, MC Commissioner Amit Kumar visited Shivalik Garden located in Manimajra. What he observed was described by officials as gross neglect and poor supervision of the facility. The condition of the garden, which serves as an important public asset for residents, was found to be far below the prescribed standards.
This alarming discovery prompted immediate administrative action to address the lapses and ensure accountability.
Official Held Responsible and Suspended
Responsibility for the maintenance deficiencies was fixed on Rohit Garg, who was serving as Assistant Engineer and currently holding charge as Sub-Divisional Engineer (SDE–Horticulture) for the area. In view of the seriousness of the shortcomings identified during the inspection, Garg has been placed under suspension with immediate effect.
The suspension has been implemented under Rule 10(1) of the Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1965, highlighting the formal and serious nature of the disciplinary action taken by the municipal corporation.
Terms of Suspension and Interim Arrangements
According to the suspension order issued by the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation:
- Garg's headquarters during the suspension period will be the office of the Executive Engineer, Horticulture Division No. 1, MC Chandigarh
- He will not be permitted to leave headquarters without prior approval of the competent authority
- He will be entitled to subsistence allowance as per established rules
- The suspension will remain in force until further orders from municipal officials
To ensure that essential horticulture and maintenance work in the area continues without disruption, the corporation has made interim arrangements:
- Angrej Singh, SDE (Horticulture), has been given additional charge of the SDE (Horticulture) post
- Shubham, Junior Engineer (Horticulture), will hold additional charge as JE (Horticulture)
These temporary arrangements will continue until further orders or until the suspension is revoked, ensuring that public garden maintenance services remain operational.
Commissioner's Firm Stance on Public Space Upkeep
MC Commissioner Amit Kumar emphasized that negligence in the upkeep of public spaces would not be condoned under any circumstances. He stated that strict action would follow against any officials found derelict in their duties, sending a clear message about the administration's commitment to maintaining public assets.
The commissioner's firm stance reflects the growing emphasis on accountability and quality maintenance of public infrastructure in urban areas, particularly in planned cities like Chandigarh where green spaces form an integral part of the city's character and appeal.
This incident serves as a reminder to all municipal officials about their responsibilities toward maintaining public assets and the consequences of failing to meet established standards. The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation's prompt action demonstrates its vigilance in monitoring public facilities and its willingness to take disciplinary measures when necessary.
