Chandigarh Losing Its Sheen and the Tag of “City Beautiful”, Baljinder Singh Bittu, Chairman of the Federation of Sector Welfare Associations
By H.C. Gera | Bureau Chief
Baljinder Singh Bittu, Chairman of the Federation of Sector Welfare Associations (FOSWAC), is a man of vision and action. Thanks to his dedication, sincerity, and tireless efforts to resolve the city’s long-standing issues, he was unanimously re-elected for a third term as Chairman of FOSWAC. I still recall my first interaction with him many years ago when he had just been elected Chairman for the first time. He was energetic and full of enthusiasm, with a clear vision of serving the residents of Chandigarh by addressing their concerns with the administration.
Through his sustained efforts and follow-ups with various departments of the Chandigarh Administration and the Municipal Corporation, he has managed to address several critical issues affecting the city’s residents. However, during our recent conversation, Bittu expressed his deep disappointment with the ongoing neglect by the administration in resolving some of the most pressing issues.
Dumping Ground in Dadu Majra
Baljinder Singh Bittu expressed his anguish over the deplorable conditions faced by residents of Dadu Majra Colony and surrounding areas. Despite his repeated appeals to the highest authorities, including the Administrator of Chandigarh and the Hon’ble Governor, no concrete action has been taken. Bittu highlighted the severe health risks to residents, many of whom are already suffering from pulmonary diseases. He pointed out that elderly people in the area are developing asthma due to exposure to pollutants. While actions are promised on paper, the situation on the ground remains unchanged.
Chandigarh Housing Board
Bittu raised serious concerns about the functioning of the Chandigarh Housing Board, which he believes has become overly commercialized. He elaborated that residents, particularly those who have been allotted houses or development units, are facing numerous issues, from the auction process to the final allotment. Instead of addressing the needs of the residents, the system is often more focused on commercial interests, leaving the citizens frustrated. He called for a more resident-friendly approach to the functioning of the Housing Board.
Sanitation Services
Bittu was unequivocal in his assessment of the city’s sanitation services, saying, “The less said, the better.” He pointed out that garbage collection, lifting, and disposal services are inadequate and need significant improvement. He stressed that Chandigarh, once known as the “City Beautiful,” is rapidly losing its sheen. The city’s aesthetic appeal, livability, and overall quality of life have declined. While Indore has earned the title of India’s cleanest city for seven consecutive years, Chandigarh could certainly become a smart city but, unfortunately, it is far from being a clean city at this point.
Traffic Congestion and Parking Issues
With the increasing number of vehicles in the city, Bittu emphasized the urgent need for a re-evaluation of parking strategies and traffic management. He urged the administration to adopt a long-term, pragmatic approach to address traffic congestion, taking into account the projected rise in population and vehicles over the next decade.
Other Issues
In addition to the above concerns, the FOSWAC Chairman raised several other issues, including the underutilization of community centers, many of which have been converted into wedding venues. He also pointed to the delayed Metro Project, which has been hanging in the balance for years. These issues, along with others affecting the residents, will be taken up with the Chandigarh Administration in hopes of finding timely solutions.
