As the panchayat elections near, the issue of incorporating seven villages into Mohali's municipal limits resurfaces. The proposal, initially approved by the Mohali Municipal Corporation (MC) in 2021, remains unresolved. Deputy Mayor Kuljit Singh Bedi has urged the Punjab government to finalise the inclusion of villages like Balongi and Mauli Baidwan. Bedi warns that a delay could create governance confusion post-election. Inclusion would grant residents access to urban amenities and foster development. With elections approaching, swift action is deemed crucial for organised local governance and fulfilling residents' aspirations.
As the panchayat elections approach, the long-standing issue of including seven villages in the Mohali municipal limits has resurfaced. This proposal, which was initially passed by the Mohali Municipal Corporation (MC) in 2021, remains unresolved, prompting renewed calls for action from local officials. The Deputy Mayor of Mohali, Kuljit Singh Bedi, has taken the lead in urging the Punjab government to finalise this important decision.
In a recent letter to the Chief Minister and key officials, Bedi emphasised the need for a timely resolution regarding the inclusion of villages such as Balongi, Bad Majra, Baliali, Ballo Majra, and Mauli Baidwan. Residents of these villages have long sought access to urban amenities and services, arguing that their inclusion in the municipal limits would significantly enhance their quality of life. The Deputy Mayor pointed out that a resolution passed in 2021 aimed to extend the Mohali civic body to accommodate these villages, reflecting the residents' desire for improved infrastructure and services.
Bedi expressed concerns that failing to address this issue before the elections could lead to complications. He warned that if the panchayat elections proceed without a clear decision on the inclusion of these villages, it could create confusion regarding the roles and responsibilities of elected representatives. This uncertainty may hinder effective governance and waste resources, as future elections could be required if the villages are later incorporated into the municipal limits.
The push for inclusion is not just about administrative boundaries; it represents a broader desire for development and modernization in these areas. Villages like Mauli Baidwan, which is situated in Sector 80, have been particularly vocal about their need for urban facilities. The resolution passed by the Mohali MC in 2021 aimed to address these needs, but progress has stalled, leaving residents in a state of limbo.
In addition to the immediate implications for governance, the inclusion of these villages in the municipal limits could lead to long-term benefits. Enhanced access to city-like facilities such as better roads, sanitation, and public services would contribute to planned development in the region. As urbanisation continues to shape the landscape of Punjab, integrating these villages into the Mohali municipal area could be a crucial step toward sustainable development.
The Deputy Mayor has called on the Punjab government to prioritise this matter and act swiftly in the interest of the residents. He believes that timely action will not only fulfil the hopes of the villagers but also pave the way for a more organised and efficient local governance structure. As the elections draw near, the need for a clear decision on this matter becomes increasingly urgent, and the residents of these villages are hopeful for a positive outcome.