Mandi MC charts path for safer, smarter city

A significant general meeting of the Mandi Municipal Corporation was held yesterday under the leadership of Mayor Virender Bhatt Sharma. MLA from Sadar, Anil Sharma, also participated in the meeting and gave important directions to officers from departments such as Jal Shakti, Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (HPPWD) and HP State Electricity Board.

The meeting began with a discussion on the recent heavy rains and related disasters in the Mandi region. Officials shared that the LiDAR survey has been completed and analysis is underway for the channelisation of rivers and drains, to prevent future damage to life and property.

To ensure there is no shortage of drinking water during emergencies, Jal Shakti officials were directed to shift pipelines laid inside drains and to prepare for using natural water sources if needed.

The corporation also discussed the problem of faulty streetlights in the city. It was decided that 500 streetlights will be fitted with smart sensors on a trial basis. These sensors will alert the department whenever a light malfunctions, helping with faster repairs.

To address the parking issues in the city, a proposal was discussed to create a new parking area near the district jail, through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the concerned department.

In addition, the corporation will send a proposal to the government under the Central Road Fund (CRF) for the widening and strengthening of the old road from Malori Tunnel to the Vegetable Market, which will help ease traffic in that area.

The house also discussed the demand to restore the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) by retired employees. After deliberation, it was decided to send a formal proposal to the state government to reinstate OPS.

In preparation for the upcoming municipal elections, the preview voter list received from ERO offices of Sadar and Balh has been displayed at the corporation office. Citizens can check the list and report errors or submit suggestions between September 20 and 26. This step is being taken to ensure transparency and accuracy in the electoral process.

As part of the nationwide “Swachhata hi Seva” (Cleanliness is service) campaign being run from September 17 to October 2, the Mandi Municipal Corporation has been organising various activities to raise public awareness about cleanliness.

He urged all residents to segregate waste into dry and wet before handing it over to sanitation workers, not litter in public spaces, and avoid dumping garbage near rivers and drains.

He added that “when every citizen takes responsibility for their own waste, Mandi will truly become a clean, beautiful and prosperous city — a true tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary”.

The Mayor thanked all participants and citizens for their cooperation and urged everyone to actively participate in all civic initiatives, especially those related to cleanliness, disaster preparedness and community development.