The deteriorating condition of Bhagtanwala Chowk and its public toilets in Amritsar has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of the Smart City Mission, despite crores of rupees being spent under the initiative. The poorly maintained facilities have drawn criticism from Congress leader and former councillor Jagdeep Singh Rinku Narula, who has demanded a thorough investigation into the utilization of Smart City funds.
Allegations of Neglect
During a visit to the Bhagtanwala Gate area, Rinku highlighted the stark contrast between the government's development claims and the actual state of civic infrastructure. He accused the Aam Aadmi Party government of failing to provide basic amenities, pointing out that the public toilets lack proper sanitation and maintenance, making them unusable for residents and visitors. According to Rinku, these facilities have become a hub for drug addicts, creating safety concerns for commuters, shopkeepers, women, and local residents.
Rinku stated, "The government is showcasing dreams of clean and modern cities, but the reality on the ground is entirely different. The condition of public amenities in the area exposes the hollowness of these claims." He noted that the area lies on a crucial city route used by thousands of people daily, including officials and public representatives, yet the issue remains ignored.
Wider Infrastructure Concerns
Rinku further alleged that children's parks and parks for senior citizens in the Amritsar South constituency also reflect the failure of the government's development agenda. He claimed that although crores of rupees were sanctioned under the Smart City project, questions remain about how the funds were utilized. He demanded a high-level inquiry, asserting that the public has the right to know how taxpayers' money was spent. "The utilization of Smart City grants should be thoroughly investigated and the findings should be placed before the public," he said.
Call for Immediate Action
Rinku emphasized that development should not be measured through advertisements, hoardings, and official claims, but through the quality of civic amenities and visible improvements on the ground. He urged the district administration and concerned departments to immediately undertake repair, maintenance, and cleanliness drives at Bhagtanwala Chowk, public toilets, parks, and other public facilities to ensure residents receive the benefits promised under the Smart City Mission.
