Mohali’s Deputy Mayor, Kuljit Singh Bedi, has expressed serious concerns about the state of sanitation in the city and called for action against the contractor responsible for mechanical sweeping. In a letter addressed to the Municipal Commissioner, Navjot Kaur, Bedi highlighted several issues:
Delayed Start of Mechanical Sweeping: Global Waste Management Company got the contract on February 27th, 2024 but failed to start mechanical sweeping services as agreed. There is a 90-day “grace period” which has ended but still they are not able to start. Bedi pointed out the need for a formal notice to be written to the said contractor. The company was urged by him to begin right away.
Poor Sanitation and Labor Shortage: Beyond the delay in mechanical sweeping, Bedi pointed out the deplorable state of sanitation on key roads (A & B). The letter accuses the contractor of failing to provide the required workforce as outlined in the tender agreement. This lack of manpower, coupled with the existing shortage within the Municipal Corporation itself, has exacerbated the situation. The Municipal Corporation Union’s refusal to work in these areas due to the accumulated garbage further complicates the issue.
Negative Impact on City Image and Potential Monsoon Woes: Bedi stressed the detrimental effect this situation has on Mohali’s image. The presence of uncollected garbage on major roads paints a negative picture of the city. Furthermore, Bedi expressed concerns regarding the upcoming monsoon season. The accumulated waste could potentially clog drains and lead to increased waterlogging during heavy rains.
Municipal Corporation’s Response:
The Municipal Commissioner, Navjot Kaur, acknowledged the issues and assured that action is underway. Discussions have been initiated with the contractor regarding the delayed launch of mechanical sweeping services. According to the company, two dedicated machines are currently in transit and operations will commence upon their arrival.
Current Situation and Public Annoyance:
While the Municipal Corporation claims to be addressing the concerns, residents of Mohali likely remain frustrated by the unhygienic conditions. By not starting to sweep mechanically soon, the risk to public health is brought about and the beauty of the city is affected. One more worry which comes with monsoon season is that silt drains will be flooded and then can cause even more problems
This underscores the need for holding accountable those who fail in their obligations according to the contract. Whether or not Mohali’s sanitation problems are addressed swiftly and effectively by the corporation remains uncertain.
