Mandi gets Nirbhaya Fund boost, civic body clears major safety push

Popularly known as “Chhoti Kashi”, the historic town of Mandi has secured a significant place on the national map after being selected among 10 cities across the country under the Central Government’s Nirbhaya Fund initiative aimed at strengthening women’s safety and upgrading urban public infrastructure.

The announcement was made during the General House meeting of the Municipal Corporation, Mandi, chaired by Mayor Virender Bhatt Sharma. Municipal Commissioner Rohit Rathour presented the detailed framework of the scheme, outlining a series of measures designed to make public spaces safer, better lit and more accessible for women.

Under the Nirbhaya scheme, the civic body has approved a comprehensive package of interventions. These include the construction of dedicated pink toilets for women, installation of high-mast lights at key locations, expansion and modernisation of street lighting, CCTV surveillance at major public points and the introduction of solar lighting systems to enhance visibility and security across the town. The proposal, cleared after detailed deliberations, will now be forwarded to the government through the district administration for final approval and implementation.

Beyond the Nirbhaya initiative, the House also reviewed the status of ongoing development works within municipal limits. Officials were directed to prioritise road maintenance, sanitation, drainage networks and public lighting infrastructure. Special focus was placed on resolving the long-standing issue of waterlogging and wastewater accumulation in Indira Market.

In coordination with the Jal Shakti Department, the tender process for a drainage project in the area is currently underway. Authorities have been instructed to ensure timely execution to permanently address sewage overflow and stagnant water concerns.

The meeting also examined LPG cylinder distribution in rural areas recently merged into municipal limits. In consultation with the Food and Civil Supplies Department, it was decided that eligible consumers would receive doorstep LPG delivery, including in pockets beyond the regular reach of gas vehicles.

Mayor Sharma underscored the need for balanced and coordinated development, assuring that all departments would work in tandem to upgrade civic amenities. With its inclusion under the Nirbhaya Fund, Mandi is poised to witness a transformative push toward safer streets and improved urban infrastructure.