CHANDIGARH: Nayab Singh Saini on Friday directed officials to strengthen sanitation and drainage systems in rural areas, emphasizing regular and time-bound cleaning of village ponds and wastewater channels across the state. Chairing a review meeting in Chandigarh, he stressed that maintaining cleanliness in villages must remain a top priority to prevent inconvenience to residents. He highlighted that ponds should be free from foul smell and waterlogging in residential areas must be strictly avoided.
The Chief Minister instructed that cleaning, desilting, and drainage works be carried out under a structured Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure transparency, quality, and accountability. He also called for better planning and the adoption of modern technology and scientific designs in the construction and renovation of ponds. Additionally, he directed officials to undertake beautification works around ponds to create clean, accessible spaces for villagers, including areas for morning and evening walks.
Highlighting the government’s broader vision, Saini said the aim is to develop clean and well-maintained water bodies in rural areas to address waterlogging and unhygienic conditions. He suggested the use of solar pumps to improve efficiency and warned of strict action against negligence, with accountability fixed on officials and local representatives. Officials informed that out of 6,538 identified ponds, 2,758 projects have received approval, with 1,718 works completed and 484 currently underway.
