Jalandharites eagerly waiting for the completion of the smart city project will have to keep their patience more. With only 7 days left before the deadline for Jalandhar Smart City Project, a plethora of development works are in limbo. The project started with the aim of transforming the urban infrastructure of Jalandhar, however, it has been marred by financial constraints. As per reports, work worth Rs 32.17 crore across nine projects under the Jalandhar Smart City Project has come to a standstill.
As per reports, Jalandhar Smart City Project started in 2016 with the central and state governments committing Rs 930 crore for its execution. However, with only Rs 840 crore allocated so far, the remaining Rs 90 crore has not been received, leading to significant project delays. The Smart City Corporation had expected to complete all projects before the mission's deadline in March 2025. However, multiple infrastructure works remain unfinished.
Vaneet Dhir talking to True Scoop, after becoming the Mayor of Jalandhar had said, "I think it was the public's money that came in the form of the smart city project of Jalandhar. But, big scams took place with it. It was highlighted in the media as well. Every single penny of the people of Jalandhar that was taken by corrupt officers or whosoever will be brought back. Mann Saab (Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann) has zero tolerance against corruption. The Bhagwant Mann Government of AAP is inclined to work for the development of Jalandhar. I assure the people of Jalandhar that whatever scam that has taken place in the city it will be unraveled."
Projects at Risk under Jalandhar Smart City Project-
- Smart Road Development: Rs 77.77 crore worth of work pending.
- Bus Terminal Construction: Delays in the Rs 400 crore transportation hub project.
- Water and Sewer Line Expansion: Multiple areas remain underserved.
- City Beautification Projects: Including smart lighting and urban aesthetics.
Below are the projects worth Rs 32.17 crore halted-
- Rs 5 crore: Construction of a model road in Rasulpur Talab area.
- Rs 5.61 crore: Bridge repair and widening work on a historic city river.
- Rs 3.07 crore: Beautification of a major urban lake.
- Rs 2.95 crore: Restoration of historical city gates.
- Rs 3.97 crore: Redevelopment of roads, footpaths, and public amenities.