Chandigarh, September 26: The Panchkula Metropolitan Development Authority (PMDA) is working to improve the city’s infrastructure, greenery and civic facilities. As part of these efforts, PMDA CEO Sh. K.M. Pandurang inspected several areas of Panchkula on Saturday, including green belts, pedestrian paths and major junctions. He also gave directions to officials for their improvement and proper maintenance.
Sh. K.M. Pandurang visited the green belts in Sectors 1, 3, 21, 4, 2, 6 and 7. He reviewed their condition with the concerned officials and discussed ways to make them more useful and convenient for residents.
He directed officials to prepare a proper plan for the development of green belts across all sectors. He said that green belts should not only provide greenery but should also offer useful public spaces, including seating areas and other basic facilities wherever required.
He also stressed that existing trees and vegetation must be protected during development work. The design of the green belts should improve both their appearance and usefulness.
*Better facilities for pedestrians and cyclists*
The CEO directed officials to give special attention to pedestrians and cyclists while planning green belt development.
He asked officials to develop proper pedestrian paths and cycle tracks along green belts so that residents can walk and cycle safely and comfortably. He also directed them to consider the width of the paths, entry points and the overall development of the surrounding areas.
*Inspection of Mata Mansa Devi Singh Dwar and T-junctions*
The PMDA CEO also inspected the area around Mata Mansa Devi Singh Dwar and several T-junctions. He reviewed traffic movement, road safety, pedestrian movement and the beautification of these areas. Officials were directed to identify the improvements needed to make the junctions safer and better organised. He said that while planning these junctions, pedestrian safety and convenience should be given due importance along with smooth movement of vehicles.
*Regular testing to ensure quality of major projects*
The CEO also reviewed the progress of major ongoing development projects in Panchkula, including the Shooting Range in Sector 32, Atal Park and the Jaldhara project. He sought information from officials about the progress, construction quality and timelines of these projects. He directed that regular testing of construction materials and workmanship be carried out to ensure quality.
He made it clear that there should be no compromise on the quality of major projects. Officials were also directed to complete the projects within the stipulated time and give proper attention to their maintenance and beautification. The CEO also reviewed various roundabouts in Panchkula and the ongoing beautification and maintenance work.
During a meeting with representatives of the concerned companies, he directed them to maintain the roundabouts properly, with good greenery, landscaping and beautification. He said the work should help strengthen Panchkula’s identity as a well-organised and beautiful city, with standards aimed at going beyond those seen in Chandigarh. A meeting was also held with officials of the Horticulture Wing. Directions were issued to improve the city’s green belts, parks, plantation activities and overall landscaping.
*Development plans based on local needs*
Sh. K.M. Pandurang directed officials to study the local conditions of each sector and junction and prepare development plans accordingly. Officials were asked to identify works based on priority and prepare the required proposals. He stressed that quality, public use and long-term maintenance should be kept in mind while planning and carrying out development works.
Other PMDA officials, including ACEO Bharat Bhushan and Chief Engineer Rajiv Sharma, were also present on the occasion.
