Chandigarh, Sept. 18 -- Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said the Panchkula Metropolitan Development Authority (PMDA) is working towards balanced and comprehensive development of the Panchkula Metropolitan Area, with Rs 829.23 crore earmarked for development works in 2026-27.

Of the allocation, around Rs 812.60 crore will be spent on capital works, including Rs 449.23 crore for infrastructure, Rs 270.59 crore for operations and maintenance, and Rs 41.83 crore for urban environment-related works.

Saini said planned urban development was essential to the vision of 'Viksit Haryana', with emphasis on better, safer and cleaner amenities, drainage, sewerage, roads, green spaces and modern urban management.

He said Panchkula's nearly 45-year-old drainage system was being strengthened to address waterlogging. Rehabilitation of a 900-mm stormwater drain from Geeta Chowk to Town Park has been completed at a cost of around Rs 5.50 crore using Machine Wound Spiral Lining technology. Work from Town Park to Singh Nala Choe has also started at a cost of Rs 38.87 crore.

The government has allocated Rs 41.83 crore for green spaces and environmental works. Treated water from proposed sewage treatment plants will be used in parks and green belts. Administrative approvals have been given for 10 MLD and 6 MLD STPs in Sectors 7C and 5C at Rs 24.60 crore and Rs 28.49 crore, respectively.

Fourteen roundabouts have been beautified, while seasonal plants and flower beds have been added along major roads. Road maintenance and improvement works are also underway.

Saini said a technology-based Integrated Command and Control Centre, estimated at Rs 208 crore, was being pursued to improve monitoring of urban services.

A shooting sports complex is being developed in Sector 32 at an approved tender cost of around Rs 109.80 crore. Work began on June 16 and is targeted for completion within 24 months.

He directed officials to ensure quality, transparency and timely execution, saying citizen convenience must remain the highest priority. He said projects must deliver tangible benefits rather than remain confined to paper for citizens.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.