Poll code in force, key Sirsa projects stalled

Sirsa, August 22

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With the Model Code of Conduct in force for the upcoming elections in the state, several major development projects such as the construction of a medical college and laying of a drainage system have come to a standstill in Sirsa.

Work order of med college on hold 

• A medical college is set to come up in the city. But, before the work order worth ~764 crore could be allotted, the Model Code of Conduct was enforced.
• The former Chief Minister had promised to establish a de-addiction centre but only a temporary ward has been set up at the Civil Hospital.
• A proposed railway underbridge near the railway station, where a level crossing remains closed for over 10 hours daily, has also been delayed.

During the BJP’s decade-long rule in Haryana, there was anticipation of large-scale development among people in Sirsa. Numerous announcements were made during visits by former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and funds were also allocated. However, major projects, including the much-anticipated medical college, are yet to take off. The project, named after Baba Sarsai Nath, was approved and a site was chosen near the CDL University. Khattar had promised to lay the foundation stone in January this year but the tendering process was delayed.

In July, the tenders were finally floated and on August 13, tenders were opened. But, before the work order worth Rs 764 crore could be allotted, the code of conduct was enforced.

Khattar had also promised to establish a de-addiction centre but only a temporary ward has been set up at the Civil Hospital. A new 200-bed Civil Hospital was also approved, but the district administration is yet to select a site, so the old building is still being used.

A sum of Rs 50 to 60 crore has already been spent to improve the drainage and sewerage systems in the city, but the problem hasn't been fixed. Even little rain causes waterlogging. To address this issue, a new drainage project worth Rs 35 crore had been approved, but the work order is still pending. According to a Municipal Council official, the work on this project will begin after the election code is lifted.

Meanwhile, a proposed railway underbridge near the railway station, which aims to decrease traffic jams caused by a level crossing that remains closed for over 10 hours daily, has also been delayed. Although the tender for this project was issued, work has been stalled due to the election code.

When contacted, MLA Gopal Kanda stated that development in Sirsa during the BJP government had been unprecedented. He said the unfinished tasks would be completed in the next term.