Amritsar MC to set up memorials for war heroes at Ram Bagh

The Municipal Corporation would set up memorials for valiant warriors like General Harbaksh Singh, a war hero credited with saving Amritsar during the 1965 India-Pakistan war and other bravehearts at the historic Ram Bagh, announced Mayor Jatinder Singh Moti Bhatia during an event to mark the foundation day celebrations of Amritsar Vikas Manch (AVM), an organisation working for the betterment of city.

The Manch also celebrated 90th birthday of its chief patron, Prof Mohan Singh on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, Mayor Bhatia announced that an e-bus service would be launched to improve local transportation. He also listed initiatives including beautifying the Golden Gate, constructing a flyover at the entrance of New Amritsar and creating modern parking facilities in key areas.

During the event, leaders of the AVM presented several key suggestions to enhance the city’s grandeur, which Bhatia responded to positively. AVM president Surinderjit Singh Bittu strongly emphasised the need for a proper solution to the Bhagtanwala dump crisis. Mayor Bhatia responded by saying that the issue would be fully resolved within a year and a half.

Principal Kulwant Singh Ankhi brought to the Mayor’s attention the construction of multi-storey buildings within the Sri Harmandir Sahib complex area, which violates municipal bylaws. Bhatia stated that a proper and legal solution would be implemented to address these high-rise buildings affecting the sanctity of Sri Harmandir Sahib’s surroundings.

For Ram Bagh’s prestige, he announced an increase in the number of gardeners, labourers and cleaning staff from 16 to 60 and mentioned

the upgrading of sewage system along the Heritage Street.

Manmohan Singh Brar and Hardeep Singh Chahal highlighted serious shortcomings in the Circular Road built under the Smart City project. Brar demanded enforcement of the agreement between the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and Amritsar Municipal Corporation regarding Ram Bagh.

Senior vice-presidents of the organisation, Rajwinder Singh Gill and Jaspal Singh, emphasised effective implementation of the ban on polythene bags. General secretary Yogesh Kamra stressed the urgent need to make the Tung Dhab drain pollution-free. Kuldeep Singh Boparai and Jatinderpal Singh demanded elimination of the menace of Chinese kite strings.

Rajinder Singh Marwaha, chairman of the World Sikh Chamber of Commerce, Punjab, Harpal Singh Ahluwalia, president of the Jassa Singh Ahluwalia Federation and Sukhwinder Singh Kohli demanded an Information Centre at the Golden Gate to provide visitors with information about prominent tourist spots and memorials.