Health Minister Directs Immediate Cleaning of Village Ponds Across Patiala Rural Constituency
Patiala, April 24:
Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh convened a high-level review meeting at the DAC Patiala to assess ongoing and proposed development works in the Patiala Rural constituency. The meeting saw participation from Deputy Commissioner Dr. Preeti Yadav, Municipal Corporation Commissioner Paramvir Singh, and senior officials from various departments.
In a detailed review, Dr. Balbir Singh underscored the importance of timely execution of all developmental projects. He made it clear that delays or lapses would not be tolerated and directed officials to ensure full accountability. A key directive issued during the meeting was the immediate cleaning of ponds in all 60 villages of the constituency. The Minister instructed that the work be completed within one month, ahead of the monsoon season, and also called for a plan to utilize pond water for drip irrigation to support local agriculture.
Addressing traffic concerns, Dr. Balbir Singh instructed the construction of slip roads wherever feasible and urged the adoption of additional measures to improve traffic flow. On the matter of law and order, he directed police and administrative officials to develop a coordinated strategy for roadside eateries and dhabas operating at night to prevent any untoward incidents.
Promoting youth engagement through sports, Dr. Balbir Singh directed the Sports Department to establish sports nurseries in 10 villages. With one already operational in Village Ajnauda, he emphasized that nine additional villages should be identified promptly to nurture rural sporting talent. He also called for regular field visits by departmental officials to ensure that grassroots-level public works are being properly addressed.
In a significant welfare initiative, the Minister instructed officials to initiate the process of allotting residential plots to economically weaker sections, and to begin identifying suitable locations for these plots in villages across the constituency.
The meeting began with a two-minute silence observed by all attendees in tribute to the civilians martyred in the recent terrorist attack in Phelgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
Also present at the meeting were PDA Chief Administrator Manisha Rana, Additional Deputy Commissioner Isha Singal, SP Vaibhav Chaudhary, and senior officials from multiple departments.
