Una, August 19: Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri on Wednesday said that the timely and effective resolution of public grievances remains a priority of the state government. He directed officials to take seriously the issues raised by public representatives and members of the District Public Grievance Redressal Committee and ensure their prompt resolution.
Chairing a meeting of the District Public Grievance Redressal Committee at the Zila Parishad Auditorium in Una, Agnihotri said there should be no unnecessary delay in addressing public problems and departments must work in coordination to resolve issues effectively.
The meeting discussed a wide range of public issues, development works and civic amenities related to different Assembly constituencies. The Deputy Chief Minister heard the concerns raised by committee members and issued directions to the concerned officials.
Special Review of Patwarkhanas and Panchayat Ghar
Agnihotri directed the Deputy Commissioner to hold a special review meeting regarding the construction of Patwarkhanas and Panchayat Ghar in newly constituted Panchayats across the district.
He asked officials to prepare an integrated proposal containing complete details of locations where new Patwarkhana buildings are required and where new Patwarkhanas are proposed.
He also directed that land-related issues concerning the construction of Panchayat Ghar in newly formed Panchayats should be resolved on priority. Cases involving land availability, transfer or other administrative complications should be taken up through proper coordination among concerned officials.
Respect Rights of Elected Pradhans
Speaking on the functioning of Panchayats, the Deputy Chief Minister stressed that the role and rights of elected Pradhans must be respected.
He said no individual should interfere with the authority of an elected Panchayat Pradhan. Whether the elected representative is a woman or a man, their constitutional role and authority within the Panchayati Raj system must be respected, he added.
New Bus Routes to Be Considered on Need and Feasibility
On demands for new bus routes, Agnihotri said the government was ready to provide transport services wherever there was a genuine public need.
However, he said passenger availability and operational feasibility would also be considered to ensure sustainable bus services. He expressed satisfaction over the successful operation of bus services introduced for AIIMS Bilaspur and Shri Chintpurni.
Officials were directed to examine suggestions regarding new routes and take necessary action based on demand and feasibility.
Funds Approved for Rampur-Santoshgarh Bridge
The Deputy Chief Minister said the necessary funds for the construction of the Rampur-Santoshgarh bridge had been approved. The work would begin soon after completion of the required formalities.
Streetlights Before Janmashtami
Agnihotri directed the Una Municipal Corporation to ensure streetlight arrangements up to the gate of Baba Bal Ji Maharaj Ashram on the Una-Hamirpur road before Shri Krishna Janmashtami to facilitate devotees.
Self-Sustaining Model for Lata Mangeshkar Arts Centre
Regarding the operation and maintenance of the Lata Mangeshkar Arts Centre, the Deputy Chief Minister said the possibility of developing a self-sustaining operational model should be explored.
He suggested considering year-round bookings and the possibility of outsourcing operations to a suitable organisation or agency to ensure better maintenance and sustainable functioning of the facility.
Focus on Patient Care at Una Hospital
Kutlahar MLA Vivek Sharma raised issues related to strengthening facilities at Una Hospital, including the boundary wall and patient care during the absence of doctors.
Agnihotri directed officials to ensure that patient care and treatment are not affected when doctors are on leave. He also stressed the need to ensure adequate beds and other facilities for patients in view of the hospital’s existing infrastructure and new buildings under construction.
Deputy Commissioner Jatin Lal welcomed the Deputy Chief Minister and assured the district administration’s commitment to the timely resolution of public grievances. Additional Deputy Commissioner Ishant Jaswal conducted the meeting and presented various issues before the committee.
Kutlahar MLA Vivek Sharma and other non-official members also gave important suggestions during the meeting. Senior officials, public representatives and representatives of various departments were present.
