‘Addressing traffic, cleanliness issues my priorities’

As the holy city get its eight Mayor, The Tribune reporter Charanjit Singh Teja spoke to Karamjit Singh Rintu to know his priorities and issues related to the city.

What will be your top priorities?

I will ask the residents about their issues which I can address. I will make my priority list. If we address the problem of traffic and cleanliness on a priority basis, I feel it would boost the tourism industry in the city. It will uplift our economy as well. Beautification of the city will attract more tourists.

How will you implement your plans?

I will discuss them with my councillors and residents. We will take feedback from them and try to find some solution to all the problems.

How will you address the issue of Bhagtanwala dump?

I will get the details and progress report of the solid waste management plant. We need appropriate land for the plant to shift the dumping site from Bhagtanwala.

As Navjot Singh Sidhu is not happy, will it affect you?

He is neither annoyed with me nor with the city. It is a minor issue and will be sorted out soon. I don’t know whether he has some resentment or he was busy somewhere. Sidhu is very much committed to the development of the city. Being the Minister of Local Bodies Department, he will make all out efforts for the betterment of the city.

Why did several councillors, who are Sidhu’s supporters, not take the oath?

Every politician has his or her supporters. The councillors are associated with him and they are also from us.

The MC is in deep financial crisis. How you will address it?

The Municipal Corporation is local governance and self-dependent body. The public money collected through taxes is the only source of revenue.We will motivate the residents to pay the taxes. I will discuss the issue with financial experts and would like to know how we can manage all.