M A I L B A G

Improving the image of PTU

Punjab Technical University (PTU), Jalandhar, has decided to introduce Academic Audit Scheme (AAS) to check and shut down institutes with poor placement record, inadequate infrastructure and sub-standard faculty. The AAS is expected to refurbish the image of the university and its affiliated colleges. But then, we need to place such engineers and academics who don’t compromise on any ground. Clear-cut checking and evaluating standards should be framed and circulated among the team members.

Secondly, cut down the number of seats in engineering colleges. Presently, 4,000 out of 12,500 seats in 40 colleges are lying vacant. Keeping the present intake in view, seats should be reduced in each college.

No more colleges should be opened. This will generate an aspiration for PTU seats in the years to come. Leaving aside a few government colleges in Bathinda and Ferozepore, it is now taken for granted that a seat will be easily available in a PTU college. This does not speak well of the university.

Er JAGVIR GOYAL, Chandigarh

Redesign rickshaws

I have read with interest Dr Gurmeet Singh Gill’s letter (Feb 21). He has rightly highlighted the difficulties experienced by the rickshaw users. These rickshaws are uncomfortable and unsafe with very high, slippery and inclining seats. He has rightly advised our engineers to redesign the rickshaws for the benefit of the people.

I am pleased to add that I have seen rickshaws in SUS Nagar (Uttaranchal) which have very low, horizontal and comfortable seats with arm-rest on both sides for safety. These rickshaws are very comfortable, safe, easy to board and alight. It is a joy to ride in these rickshaws. I think these are ideally suited to the children and the aged people.

I request the authorities concerned to make efforts to introduce such rickshaws in Chandigarh. This will be the greatest service to the children and to the aged people.

TEJA SINGH, Kapurthala

II

I am reminded of the rickshaws of Shantiniketan in West Bengal. The rickshaws there are spacious enough for two persons to sit and have their seats tilted backwards. Those features not only make the users very comfortable but also ensure safe travel. If that design is adopted for the rickshaws operating in Punjab and Chandigarh UT, the passengers will feel safe and enjoy the ride as well.

Dr O.C. HANDA, Sanjouli (Shimla)

Virk as DGP

I do not know why Mr S.S. Virk’s appointment as the Director-General of Police of Punjab has been criticised by some sections including Mr Simranjit Singh Mann, President, Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar). A reputed IPS officer of Maharashtra cadre, Mr Virk served Punjab with devotion and dedication during the peak period of terrorism.

As SSP, Amritsar, Mr Virk had engaged terrorists on hand and while doing so, he himself was hit by a terrorist at point blank range. He was lucky enough to survive. He could have returned to Maharashtra then. However, being a brave officer, he decided to stay back in Punjab. Mr Virk has been with Punjab Police for well over 20 years. His repatriation to Maharashtra at this critical juncture would have been gross injustice to an able officer.

SHAMSHERJIT SINGH VIRK, Lakhmari (Kurukshetra)

Help the retirees

To better the lot of the retired Central Government employees, the government should do the following. One, those who retired after 35 years of service be awarded an increment and specially served employees of 40 years service be rewarded. Two, retirees over 65 years of age be rewarded. And finally, medical allowance be enhanced from the present Rs 100 to Rs 250.

NITYANAND SHARMA,  Ambala Cantt