In a significant move aimed at transforming the urban landscape, Jalandhar Mayor Jagdish Raja has announced a comprehensive blueprint for the city's development. The ambitious plan, with a projected outlay of approximately ₹1,200 crore, focuses on a dual strategy: revamping critical infrastructure and launching major green initiatives to enhance the city's environment and livability.
Mayor's Vision for a Revitalized Jalandhar
Mayor Jagdish Raja, who assumed office in February 2024, has placed a strong emphasis on addressing long-pending civic issues. The cornerstone of his plan is a massive overhaul of the city's road network and water supply system. He has directed officials to prepare detailed estimates for the repair and reconstruction of key roads that have fallen into disrepair. This initiative is not just about patching potholes but involves a complete, quality-driven reconstruction to ensure durability.
Parallel to the road works, the water supply infrastructure is set for a major upgrade. The Mayor has stressed the need for a reliable and efficient system to provide clean drinking water to all residents, signaling a move away from the erratic supply that has plagued certain areas.
Green Jalandhar: Parks, Plants, and Pollution Control
The second, equally vital pillar of the plan is an environmental push dubbed the 'Green Jalandhar' initiative. Mayor Raja has issued clear directives to kickstart this program without delay. A key component is the revival and beautification of the city's parks and green spaces. The goal is to create well-maintained, accessible public parks that serve as lungs for the city and community hubs.
Furthermore, a large-scale plantation drive is on the cards. The plan involves planting a substantial number of saplings across the city to increase green cover, combat air pollution, and improve the overall microclimate. This green push is seen as essential for sustainable urban living and improving the quality of life for Jalandhar's citizens.
Administrative Push and Future Roadmap
To ensure the timely execution of these projects, Mayor Raja is taking a hands-on approach. He has instructed the officials of the Jalandhar Municipal Corporation to accelerate the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs). The emphasis is on swift administrative action to convert plans into actionable tenders and, eventually, visible work on the ground.
The ₹1,200 crore plan represents a holistic vision for Jalandhar's future, balancing essential hard infrastructure with crucial environmental soft infrastructure. If implemented effectively, it promises to address daily civic grievances while also investing in the long-term ecological health and aesthetic appeal of the city. The success of this blueprint will depend on sustained political will, efficient bureaucratic follow-through, and effective fund allocation in the coming months.
