Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh Reviews River Cleanup and Civic Projects in Patiala
– No More Floods in Patiala: Health Minister Outlines River and Civic Action Plan
Patiala, April 30:
Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh today conducted a field visit to areas adjoining Badi Nadi and Chotti Nadi in Patiala, issuing clear instructions to officials for the complete cleaning of both water bodies within the month of May. He also directed the immediate removal of illegal encroachments along the riverbanks and emphasized the development of green belts in these areas to enhance environmental sustainability.
Accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Preeti Yadav, PDA Chief Administrator Manisha Rana, and Senior Deputy Mayor Harinder Kohli, the Minister reviewed the flood-prone zones and reiterated the state government’s commitment—under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Bhagwant Singh Mann—to preventing a recurrence of flood-like situations in Patiala. He asked the drainage and allied departments to expedite embankment construction wherever required and ensure timely execution of all related works.
Highlighting steps to address water pollution, Dr. Balbir Singh informed that the problem of untreated sewage flowing into Badi Nadi will soon be resolved with the commissioning of two new Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs)—a 15 MLD plant near Daulatpur and a 26 MLD facility behind Sunny Enclave. Both are expected to become operational by September this year.
During his visit, the Health Minister also inspected a vacant plot near the park in Jujhar Nagar and instructed the concerned departments to initiate the process of constructing a government primary school at the site. He noted that over 150 children are currently studying in a makeshift arrangement at the local Gurdwara Sahib, and the new school would provide much-needed infrastructure for quality education in the locality.
Later, at PUDA Bhawan in Urban Estate, Dr. Balbir Singh held a meeting with representatives of Resident Welfare Societies from PUDA-developed colonies including Urban Estate and PUDA Enclaves. He assured the residents that all their concerns, including road repairs, park upkeep, and establishment of educational institutions, would be resolved on a priority basis. The Minister also affirmed that all discussed projects will be executed within stipulated timelines. Councillor Mohit Kumar and Pritpal Singh Bhandari were also present at the meeting.
