Dysfunctional fountain at Nehru Shopping Complex an eyesore
The defunct fountain at the Nehru Shopping Complex here has become a symbol of misplaced priorities and wasteful expenditure of public funds. The fountain, the cost of building which is estimated in lakhs, stopped functioning within a month and has since become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, with algae visible in its stagnant water and trash accumulating inside.
Located behind the statue of India’s first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the fountain was intended to beautify the area. However, it has instead become an eyesore, with visitors and locals alike expressing frustration over the waste of resources. The shopping complex, situated at a prime location on Lawrence Road, attracts a large number of visitors daily, but the fountain’s neglect has dimmed the overall aesthetic appeal of the area.
The Amritsar Improvement Trust (AIT), responsible for the fountain’s construction, has faced criticism for its handling of the project. AIT Chairman Ashok Talwar had promised to repair the fountain, but no action has been taken so far. During a visit to the complex several months ago, Talwar had assured that the fountain would be repaired soon, citing that the brass material used was stolen by unscrupulous elements. However, lack of progress in the repair work has raised suspicion about the trust’s intentions.
The situation highlights the neglect of basic facilities at the shopping complex, which is in dire need of attention. The complex lacks proper maintenance, with broken tiles, crumbling infrastructure and inadequate waste management. The fountain’s failure has also raised concerns about corrupt practices and the use of inferior quality materials in its construction.
A frequent visitor to the complex, Advocate Kuljeet Singh Malawali, pointed out, “This hints at the use of inferior quality material while constructing the fountain. It also reeks of corrupt practice. The matter should be inquired into, and those found guilty should be punished.” The incident has sparked widespread outrage among locals, who demand accountability from the authorities responsible for the project.
The decision of the AIT to construct the fountain has been questioned by many, who argue that the funds could have been better utilised to address the pressing infrastructure needs of the complex. The incident serves as a reminder about the need for transparency and accountability in public spending, ensuring that resources are utilised efficiently and effectively.
