Ludhiana's Smart City projects, with a total budget of INR 930 crore, are experiencing delays, leaving key infrastructure improvements unfinished. Originally slated for completion by June 2024, several crucial projects, including bridges over the Buddha Dariya and Sidhwan Canal and road construction along the Buddha Nullah, are behind schedule. Despite nearly nine years of effort since the Smart City Mission's 2015 launch, residents see limited improvements. While some smaller initiatives near completion, larger projects face setbacks due to lengthy tendering processes. Officials, including Municipal Commissioner Sandeep Rishi, are working to expedite progress, but some deadlines may extend into 2025.
The completion of Ludhiana's Smart City projects, with a total budget of INR 930 crore, is facing delays. Several key infrastructure projects, originally planned for completion by June 2024, remain unfinished. This delay means residents will have to wait longer for improvements to bridges, roads, and other essential infrastructure.
Ludhiana was one of the first 20 Indian cities chosen for the Smart City Mission launched in 2015. This ambitious initiative aims to improve urban living standards through better infrastructure, services, and technology. However, the slow progress in Ludhiana has frustrated residents who have seen limited improvements despite nearly nine years of work on the project.
A significant cause for concern is the delay in constructing several bridges. These bridges, planned for construction over the Buddha Dariya and Sidhwan Canal, are crucial for improving traffic flow and overall connectivity within the city.Their completion dates are now pushed back significantly.
Road construction projects along the Buddha Nullah and connecting areas are also incomplete. These road improvements are essential for reducing congestion and improving travel times for residents.
While larger projects face delays, some smaller initiatives are nearing completion. These include installing Unique Identification (UID) number plates on properties (INR 5.75 crore), bioremediation of legacy waste sites, building a basketball court at Guru Nanak Stadium (INR 11.26 crore), and providing a 24/7 surface water supply to specific areas like the ABD area.
Officials attribute the delays to factors like lengthy tendering processes for certain projects. While the Municipal Corporation has secured funding for all planned work, some deadlines may need to be extended further, possibly into 2025. The Municipal Commissioner, Sandeep Rishi, has assured residents that efforts are underway to expedite project completion.
The delays in Ludhiana's Smart City projects raise concerns about project management and efficiency. Residents will likely face longer wait times for the promised improvements to their city's infrastructure. It will be important to monitor progress closely and ensure that the remaining projects are completed efficiently, transparently, and to a high standard to deliver the intended benefits to the city.
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