Saini goes all out to fix state’s civic mess

It’s all hands on deck for the Nayab Singh Saini-led BJP government as it goes all out to tackle three pressing civic challenges dominating the state’s narrative — sanitation, waterlogging and pothole-ridden roads.

Even as the administration grapples with crop loss assessments following rains and floods, the Chief Minister’s instructions on civic issues are clear: show results and stick to deadlines. Saini has been personally monitoring progress through review meetings and on-ground evaluations.

“A visible difference and a turnaround in sanitation will be in place in three months’ time. We have launched a sanitation drive all over the state and I have been holding review meetings on sanitation, waste management and legacy waste with the senior officers in the government. New tenders have been issued for legacy waste, sanitation and door-to-door garbage collection. New teams will be on ground and will take up redressal of these issues on a war-footing,” said Vipul Goel, Urban Local Bodies Minister.

The government has rolled out an 11-week cleanliness campaign — Shahri Swachhta Abhiyan — from September 7 to November 7, beginning in Gurugram. The drive will cover markets, roads and residential spaces, focusing on pledges and public participation. To ensure results, nearly 20 IAS/HCS officials have been appointed as special sanitation officers in urban hubs like Gurugram and Faridabad.

The urgency is evident. Chief Principal Secretary to CM, Rajesh Khullar, recently spent a week in Gurugram reviewing its waterlogging plan and cleanliness measures. With rains causing widespread waterlogging and disrupting daily life, Deputy Commissioners across districts have been directed to remain in the field, visit affected areas and ensure quick drainage.

Saini also postponed his UAE visit and other interstate engagements to oversee relief work in flood-prone districts. A State Disaster Management Authority control room has been activated, pooling departments like PWD, Irrigation & Water Resources, Agriculture and ULB to coordinate rescue and relief.

“The planning to check waterlogging began way back in March. This time, there has been an improvement of 50-60 per cent in the waterlogging-affected areas. We have also readied a year-long comprehensive plan to clean drains and be prepared well in advance,” Goel said.

Meanwhile, rain-damaged roads and potholes — an issue the Opposition flagged aggressively in the monsoon session of the Vidhan Sabha — are also on the government’s radar. “We are ready to get going after mid-September on repair and recarpeting of roads damaged due to the rains. In one month, every pothole will be filled and repairs carried out to ensure a smooth ride for the residents. Every plan, now, has a deadline and we will stick to it,” Goel said.