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Pinjore Road Expansion
Take That There is no proposal to widen the Pinjore and Kalka road as a new bypass is being
made — NHAI
Panchkula, August 8 In a letter to the Panchkula district administration, the NHAI has categorically stated that “there is no proposal for widening the Pinjore and Kalka road as a new bypass was being made.” The NHAI letter is in response to a request made by the Panchkula district administration for the reimbursement of expenses to be incurred on the shifting of electricity lines for the proposed expansion of the road. The administration had been “presuming” that the road would be widened even though the NHAI never had a proposal to do so. Interestingly, the administration had assisted the NHAI to carry out an anti-encroachment drive in Pinjore in January to pave way for the expansion of the road. Panchkula deputy commissioner Rajinder Kataria said the administration was hopeful of getting rid of the daily traffic chaos as it had assumed that the highway authorities were going to widen the road using the land reclaimed by the administration after demolishing hundreds of shops and houses in the area. However, now it would again request the NHAI to look into the matter, else commuters and locals would have to suffer at least for the next two and half years until the bypass is constructed. This is not the first time when poor coordination between the NHAI and the district administration has come to the fore while tackling the problem of traffic jams in these towns. The administration which had, with the help of locals, repaired the road by filling potholes, had attracted the ire of the NHAI project director, Lt Col K.P. Sharma who asked the highway administration to take action against the public for filling potholes with inferior material. Perturbed over this attitude, the deputy commissioner even complained to the chairman of the NHAI. In a letter to the chairman, Gokul Ram, Kataria requested him to intervene and complained that the situation was not going to improve under the control of the present project director. Sharma, when contacted, however, insisted that there was never a proposal to widen the road. “We never proposed such a thing,” he said.
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Amendment to Bylaws
MHA Posers
Chandigarh, August 8 While seeking details on the administration’s “competency” to amend bylaws and allowing large-scale conversions of land into the industrial area, the MHA, in a communication to the city administration, has sought details on the proposed bill on the Urban Arts Commission for Chandigarh. Already having generated a lot of heat last year, the proposed bill could derail the course of urban planning as being visualised and pushed by the UT administrator, Gen S.F. Rodrigues (retd). Once constituted, all projects would be under the purview of the regulatory body, thus curtailing the powers being enjoyed by the administrator at present. A senior official in the MHA confirmed that while acting on the feedback from people, details had been sought about the process adopted to amend the bylaws and the authority by virtue of which these were done. The administration has been asked about the role played by the members of the advisory council in sanctioning the projects. With regard to the queries posed by the MHA, UT officials are preparing a reply to be presented before the union home secretary next week. “It is the outcome of the feedback that the Government of India has got from the people that clearly indicated that their aspirations were not being met. The move has been initiated by the MHA in its endeavour to maintain the city’s ethos and character as envisaged by Le Corbusier. Apprehensions are being expressed over the rapidly changing face of the city,” the sources said. Not denying that difference between the Congress leadership and the top hierarchy in the administration, the sources said strong objections by a group of non-political original inhibitors of the city over “disfiguring” of Le Corbusier’s master plan with regards to the development of the city and it’s periphery has also played a major role
in the ministry asking the administration to explain its position. The administration is of the view that there is a need to strike a balance between the old and the resurgent Chandigarh in view of the changing needs of the people. On the issue of the commission, the administration has been sighting legislations that could hamper the smooth functioning of the proposed commission. At least two Acts —- Capital of Punjab (Development and Regulation) Act, 1952, and the Punjab New Capital (Periphery) Control Act, 1952, which govern Le Corbusier’s master plan with regard to development have been passed by Parliament.
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Dil hai Hindustani, but foreign players real stars
While their heart is with the Indian squad, they are looking forward to seeing their icons like Roger Federer (tennis), Michael Phelps (swimming) and football’s numero uno Ronaldinho in action. Though the biggest sporting event would have sports aficionados glued to their TV sets for the coming weeks, it would definitely be foreign superstars who would have the maximum “eye hits” from local spectators. Seventeen-year-old Kunal Bhardwaj, a budding swimmer, says, “I am keen on the schedule for swimming events as I don’t want to miss even a single lap. My all-time favourite is not Veerdhawal Khadhe, but Michael Phelps. I want Khadhe to win, but I am looking forward to watch Phelps.” Similarly, for teenager Charvi Saxena, a tennis player, it’s Roger Federer. “Though these days, Fed Express has not been in his usual form, I am not going to miss any of his matches,” she says, adding that she hopes Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi get a medal for the country. Upcoming cricketers Abhilash Sharma, Manjot Singh and Karan Aggarwal, all trainees at DP Azad Academy, also want to watch foreign superstars in action. “I admire Indian players, but one must admit their calibre is not the same as that of foreign players,” they say. “Their dedication shows in their moves and it’s a treat to watch them,” they add. “I like tennis player Rafael Nadal”, Manjot adds while Abhilash is hoping to see Adriano (football). Arjun, a young swimmer, sums up aptly. “For me, it’s a contest between the heart and mind. Heart for India and mind that feels let the best win, which sadly will not be
us.”
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With rain, surge in diseases
Chandigarh, August 8 According to figures with the Integrated Disease Surveillance Project report, the number of patients with viral fever is rising in the city. Over 7,500 cases of viral fever have been reported from July to August 7. As compared to last year, the number has increased, as 8,000 cases have been reported in July and August. However, the number of people queuing up at hospitals and health centres is more than what official registers suggest, as a large number of people rush to private hospitals for treatment. Notably, 60 per cent of the patients complain of viral fever and severe body ache. Deputy medical superintendent, Government Multi-Speciality Hospital, Sector 16, Dr S.K. Bhandari, said: “The hospital’s out-patient department (OPD) has seen a sudden spurt in the number of patients suffering from viral fever and infections, diarrhoea, gastritis and even gastroenteritis.” Over 13,000 cases of diarrhoea have been reported since June this year. “The trend is ‘more or less’ the same in case of gastroenteritis. Several cases of measles, typhoid and viral hepatitis have also been reported,” admitted H.C. Gera, nodal officer, Integrated Disease Surveillance Project (IDSP). According to the figures available with the IDSP, there has been a small but significant rise in typhoid cases. As compared to last year, there has been an increase of 66 per cent typhoid cases (from 15 in August, 2007 to 25 in August, 2008 so far). “Monsoon spells trouble for those whose immunity system is weak. The virus becomes hyperactive during rainy season due to high humidity level and frequent change in temperature. Even bacteria multiply at a very fast rate during this season. However, by taking precautions, one can escape the trouble,” Dr Navneet Sharma of internal medicine, PGI warned. Once the virus enters
the body, it multiplies till its number is high enough to cause an infection. The infection first spreads locally. It usually starts with tonsillitis, cold and cough and gradually spreads to the rest of the body. Symptoms of viral fever are body and muscle pain, headache, joint pain, redness of eyes, skin rash and nasal congestion. Some people also experience nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, said Dr Rajesh Dheer, ENT department, GMSH-16. According to experts, drink plenty of fluids in case of high fever and also use cold sponges. Since it spreads through droplets, avoid sharing personal belongings. Stay home if you have contracted viral fever. Chances of the infection being passed onto family members are high. However, since the infection is mild, full recovery within a week is
assured.
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@-Revolution 2008
Chandigarh, August 8 This was stated by executive director of KPMG, Ramesh Srinivas, during an interaction with The Tribune, on the sidelines of a conference on sourcing, organised at the CII Northern region, here today. While releasing a KPMG report, “Beyond Purchasing: Next Steps for Procurement Profession”, he said that there have been several instances in which global companies, sourcing their goods from India, have been caught in legal wranglings and boycotts in the West, after their Indian suppliers were found to engage child labour, violate labour laws or lack in environmental initiatives. “Inspite of such instances, after which these companies lost business, Indian suppliers have failed to learn a lesson and sustainability is still not high on their priority. However, with the global retail players planning to enter the Indian retail biz by sourcing a majority of their goods locally, sustainability will have to get top priority, along with reliability in delivery, quality and price,” he said. Outlining that there is a tremendous potential in food and food products, textile, sports goods, pharmaceutical and leather industry for sourcing their goods to the retail majors, Srinivas said the industry here will have to pull their act together if it wanted to grow with these retail majors. With companies like Wal-Mart all set to launch their wholesale cash and carry operations in India in a joint venture with Bharti next year, the company said that it would engage only in ethical sourcing of goods and green initiatives would be given top priority. “The only way to grow for the small and medium enterprises, who will become our suppliers, would be to become sustainable. A stringent audit of suppliers will be carried out to ensure that sourcing is ethical. We will also be strengthening our supply chain management by teaching transporters to cut costs. Our own distribution centres, like the one set up at Banur near Patiala, are one of the most energy efficient,” said Raj Jain, managing director and CEO, Bharti-Wal-Mart.
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Role of youth takes centre stage
Chandigarh, August 8 He complimented the IT sector for shaping the Indian dream, and assured that Punjab, which has had a laggard growth in the IT sector, would soon catch up with the rest of the country through its sheer resolve, courage and entrepreneurship zeal. “The lost opportunity has pricked the pride of
Panjab, which will be restored by preparing the Punjabi boys and girls for the challenges of IT development in the region, so that they can be part of the Indian dream,” he said. The second day of the eRevolution was focussed on youth and the discussions were spearheaded by three major partners in this initiative — Young Indians, Indian Angel Network, and The Indus Entrepreneur. The tone of discussions was set by Sanjay Kumar, finance secretary, Chandigarh administration. “In every age, it is the youth that has defined the future and today it is they alone who will be the drivers of change they desire to bring in their city and region,” he said. Dr Rahul
Mirchandani, vice-chairman of Young Indians, said: “We want youth to create destiny of India and a paradigm shift in their attitude to excel and not to settle for the ‘second best’ anywhere in life”. He informed the delegates how over 900 professionals, 3,500 students and 5,000 farmers were being engaged in a nation building and leadership development agenda through Yi where the best practices of the industry were being applied to find solutions to Indian problems. Endorsing these sentiments, Naveen
Munjal, CEO of Hero Exports, chairman of Delhi Chapter of Yi, spoke about the growing opportunities for youth in Tier-II cities of Punjab where youth is being encouraged to explore
entrepreneurship. Anupama Arya, chairperson of Yi Chandigarh chapter, said youth in the northern region had great untapped potential and the need was to channel it into productive nation-building activities. Principal secretary, industries, Punjab, S.S. Channy shared the broad contours of Punjab’s new industrial strategy, which focuses on developing industrial infrastructure, building skills, public-private partnerships and industry-specific task-forces, among others. He also pointed out that Punjab had identified some of the key growth engines, including
IT/ITeS, which would lead Punjab into a new era of industrial growth. He shared a strategic road map for creating an IT ecosystem in the state that would be built upon four pillars of infrastructure, human resources, policy frame work and pro-active engagement with present and potential investors to facilitate their growth in the state.
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Entrepreneurs share success stories
Chandigarh, August 8 Sharing his success story with Daksh, Sanjiv Aggarwal said the city had a huge potential for growth and he was looking at the emergence of another Infosys from the city. Aggarwal had founded Daksh in 2000, which was later acquired by IBM in 2004. He remained the CEO till June 2006, with 20,000 employees. On the question of scaling up and diluting one’s share in the organisation, Aggarwal advised that an entrepreneur should not have financial attachment to his project and must focus on its continued excellent performance. A.D. Singh, managing director, Olive Bar & Kitchen, a chain of prestigious restaurants with a strength of 700 employees and a turnover of Rs 60 crore, said scaling up a hospitality business in the country was a great challenge because of the unavailability of funds, high real estate prices, scarcity of skilled talent in various locations and above all attracting customers to the restaurant. He said it was the greenfield area today in which entrepreneurship opportunities existed, provided one was able to deliver excellence. Ajay Kapur, managing director, SIDBI Ventures, and member of Indian Angels Network, admitted that it was a humbling experience to see entrepreneurs with ideas being turned down, but advised the start-up enterprises to have a good investment banker. Among others who shared their success stories were Pranav Gupta, managing director of Parabolic Drugs, Kiran Kulkarni, managing director, Geodesic, and winner of India Super Achiever Award; Subrata Chakraborty, managing director of Brand Curry Communications. Clara Barby of Acumen Funds, Hyderabad, shared some of the ventures that Acumen had funded in the country, including a hospital, 1298 Emergency Services (India) in Mumbai, with several ambulances, and drinking water facilities. She said the emerging clusters for entrepreneurship identified by Acumen included low-cost hospitals, community water, energy efficiency appliances, distributed energy generation and agriculture inputs.
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MC pays crores for unavailed electricity
Panchkula, August 8 Interestingly, residents of the city, who paid this money from their pockets as municipal tax, had to go through dark streets for around one year. There are about 15,000 light points in the city out of which the municipal committee maintains 9,000 and the rest are the responsibility of HUDA. Both agencies shell out around Rs 21 lakh as electricity bill every month. As the city has no electricity meter in working order for these lights, the bill is generated by the Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam on average basis. In cases, where electricity meters were not installed or do not work properly, the bill is generated on the basis of sanctioned load or the average of consumption by the user in the past, no matter how much electricity is withdrawn by the consumer. The consumer has to pay the amount whichever is higher, said the officials at the UHBVN. In case of Panchkula, there is hardly any main road where all the lights are in working condition. The lights don’t work on the roads starting from Red Bishop, a Haryana tourism restaurant, going through the Office Complex of Sectors 2 and 4 and joining the markets of Sectors 11 and 14, till Amartex Chowk. Similar is the condition of the road starting from the Housing Board Chowk to Sector 12. The condition of lights on the roads going through Sectors 16-17, 9-10 and 8-9 is no better. In addition to it, at least 20 per cent of lights on the inner roads were also out of order for the last one year. The condition of street lights started deteriorating since the civic body decided to take the maintenance in its own hand to save the 10 per cent maintenance charge on the consumption of the total energy, said officials at the UHBVN. The contractors hired by the civic body did not repair the faults properly, which led to the current situation. It even resulted in faults of the meters installed in the city, rendering them useless, said the officials. The faulty meters were one of the factors that led to the civic body scrapping the MoU signed with a Delhi-based company for installing energy saving lamps at the city roads. The company had to pay the 10 per cent of the saving on total bill to the civic body after it installed the energy saving bulbs in the streets of the town with guarantee of maintaining the lights as well. However, in absence of electricity meters, it was not possible to spare any penny in the pocket of the company, as the UHBVN was still charging the bill on average basis. The civic body, however, found it better to scrap the agreement.
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Admn statement on land acquisitions ‘misleading’
Chandigarh, August 8 Under the name of ‘public purpose’ the Rajiv Gandhi Chandigarh Technology Park (RGCTP) Phase I & II were essentially a real estate project, where more than 70 per cent of the total 400 acres (approx.) has been utilised for non-IT purposes. Without validating the real success of the RGCTP, now the UT administration wants to acquire another 272 acres of land. The Chandigarh administration has stated that the national rehabilitation policy was basically for persons where displacement of 400 or more families was involved. The wrong interpretation of the policy had been brought to the notice of the union rural ministry that had asked for comments from the administration. As per the policy, officials have to ensure that acquisition of agricultural land for non-agricultural use in the project be kept to the minimum and only degraded land not fit for agriculture was acquired. The entire exercise involves following specific defined steps in the policy and involved gram panchayats, gram sabhas and other elected representatives. The compensation award shall take into account the market value and as also the intended land use. H.S. Johal, president of the society, alleged that there were reported attempts by the administration to dishonestly understate the number of affected families for ulterior motives. The RGCTP Phase III is actually an ecological disaster waiting to happen as 50,000 trees are going to be felled in the ecologically fragile area adjacent to Sukhna Lake without any environmental impact assessment. He said the administration had stated that while looking at the higher auction prices, one could not forget that large chunks of land had to be left for open spaces, green belts parks, etc. In the context of Phase III, out of 272 acres of land, 200 acres would still be used for commercial purposes. The reason behind the haste in acquiring this prime land in the city was that Land Acquisition (Amendment) Bill, 2007, which was going to be passed in the monsoon session of Parliament, amended the definition of ‘public purpose’, and this acquisition would then fall beyond the purview of the definition of ‘public purpose’. However, even then the UT Administration had no option but to strictly act as per the intention of the Central Government. As regards the Periphery Control Act, the UT administration has highlighted that illegal constructions in violation of this Act have come up. However, for slum dwellers, the slum rehabilitation scheme has been made at the cost of farmers.
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Ambala-Zirakpur flyover to be ready by Oct 15
Zirakpur, August 8 The Rs 300-crore ambitious project of the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) took off in 2006 and included
the construction of Zirakpur flyover, Baldev Nagar flyover, four major bridges and
underpasses. Out of these, the Lalru and Dappar underpasses are already functional as is the Zirakpur bridge adjacent to the Yadvindra bridge, which is also functional. Col K.P. Sharma (retd), project in charge of the NHAI, said the project was 75 per cent complete and would be functioning by October 15. “It depends on rain, which considerably slows done work. But we are expecting the monsoon to ebb within the next
10 days, after which the work would be back to full swing,” he said. He added that the Baldev Nagar flyover would be ready before the Zirakpur one. “The bridge over the Ghaggar would be functional by September 15,” he said. More than 700 persons had been involved in the project since its inception in 2005. “The project was awarded on November 15, 2005, but got under way on May 15, 2006,” he said. The Zirakpur project was one of the most difficult projects to handle. “Every project has technical and social problems linked to it, but here we faced more of these,” he added.
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NRI mother gets interim custody amid drama
Chandigarh, August 8 Produced on the directions of the court, Aviraj was visibly happy at the sight of his mother. In contrast, tears flowed from her eyes as she waited in the chair to hold him. While the Depinder’s in-laws, Davinder and her husband Jagir Singh Aulakh, who had allegedly kept Aviraj forcibly with them, stood before Justice Bedi with the infant their arms, Aviraj’s eyes rolled towards his mother, Depinder. The moment he set his eyes on his mother, he started waving, bringing Depinder promptly to her feet. What followed was an intense argument between the lawyers over the
child’s custody. While an anxious Davinder laid stress on the custody of the child, Justice Bedi stated in the court: “It is a very sensitive matter. I want to decide the case amicably. It is better if both parties enter into a compromise.” Elaborating on guardianship of the child, Justice Bedi stated that there was a difference between a guardian and natural guardian and one cannot ignore this fact. Subsequently, Justice Bedi asked both the petitioner and the respondents to come to his chamber to voice their opinion. The court was then adjourned for lunch break till 1.45 pm. Thereafter, the interim custody of the child was given to the mother till Tuesday. Depinder stepped out of the courtroom with Aviraj, while an apparently infuriated Davinder pounced on her to grab the baby back. “E’ mainu de de,” (give him to me) she shrieked and attempted to grab the child. Depinder’s resistance made her more angry and she hurled abuses on her. In a bid to protect Aviraj, Depinder gave the infant to her brother. Narrating the incident, Depinder said: “I was expecting them to react but not in this manner. Davinder pulled my clothes and hit me on the neck. I was worried that she would forcibly take away my child. Thankfully, nothing like that happened,” she said. The altercation outside the courtroom drew an assembly of lawyers. Depinder and Aviraj were later escorted out by officials of the local Canadian Consulate.
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MC panel goes tough to improve sanitation
Mohali, August 8 The five-member panel of the council, a meeting of which was held yesterday, has recommended that the sanitation contractors should be accountable to the municipal councillor concerned and zonal complaint offices set up to address the residents’ grievances. Sukhminder Singh Barnala, one of the members of the committee, said contractors would have to maintain proper sanitation failing which their earnest money would be forfeited and contract cancelled. A contractor would have to ensure that he engages as much number of employees as mentioned in the terms and conditions of the agreement otherwise penalties would be imposed. A municipal councillor could check the attendance of safai sewaks and if found short the executive officer of the civic body would be informed in this regard. A sum of Rs 500 would be imposed as fine if the trailer carrying garbage was overloaded or was found without a cover. Phool Raj Singh, another member of the committee, said the town has been divided into four zones for sanitation work and the contractor would have to maintain an office in each zone where a complaint register would be maintained. Two employees would have to be on duty even on Sundays in each zone to attend to emergency complaints. He said that earlier employees refused to work on Sundays and if any
stray animal died on the weekend the carcass was not lifted immediately.
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Admn must develop reserve areas: MC panel
Chandigarh, August 8 The meeting was held under the chairmanship of Kuldip Singh and attended by all councillors and officers concerned. A number of councillors suggested that due to shortage of manpower it was difficult for the horticulture department of the corporation to maintain these areas. Thus, the administration should share the responsibility, they said. The committee decided to develop green belt in Mauli Jagran complex, develop a park at Hallo Majra village and accorded approval to various development agendas of Rs 70.47 lakh. The agenda items that were included at the meeting were development of green belt in Sector 56 for Rs 14.81 lakh, development of four parks in Sector 40-C for Rs 1.5 lakh, development of park at Hallo Majra village for Rs 4.69 lakh, landscaping work in green belt adjoining DAV Model School, Sector 15, for Rs 2.71 lakh and development of seven parks in Sector 35 for Rs 12.63 lakh. Also, two table agendas were approved, including development of various parks in Sectors 20 and 33 and development of green belt adjoining wall of New Public School, Sector 18, for Rs 1.72 lakh.
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Villagers suffer owing to neglect of Sukhna choe
Zirakpur, August 8 It has become a matter of serious concern for the Zirakpur municipal council. The untreated discharge of sewage from Chandigarh and Panchkula is being carried by the Sukhna choe, a seasonal rivulet that joins the Ghaggar river, thus polluting it. Residents of Baltana village and colonies situated along the rivulet have been facing several problems because of the stench coming from the sewage and effluents carried by
the choe. In Zirakpur and Baltana, seven to eight children are daily suffering from viral fever and water-borne diseases like stomach infection. According to the doctors, “Serious cases also come to light. We mostly refer them to hospitals.” Puneet, a resident of Baltana village, says, “It is difficult to cross the rivulet because of the unpleasant smell coming from it. It is causing breathing
problems.” Vijay, a resident of Saini Vihar, says, “Heap of garbage and waste material along the rivulet narrates the tale of indifference on part of the authorities concerned. I have never seen any employee from the department concerned to check the nuisance.” The residents also allege that no corrective measures have been taken by the authorities concerned. Executive officer of Zirakpur municipal council R.K. Mittal said he would look into the matter and take necessary action.
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Rains wreak havoc on roads
Chandigarh, August 8 Huge potholes, caved-in sections and signs of patch repair work bear testimony to the havoc wreaked on the roads. This has also exposed the tall claims of the MC engineering department of doing “quality work”. Though MC chief engineer S.K. Bansal claimed that everything was “fine” and “no major” complaints had been received, a drive through the city tells a different story. Major roads that have been damaged due to waterlogging or blockage of sewerage were the V3 roads in Sectors 28, 29, 28, Industrial Area; V5 roads in Sector 19, 52, Khajeri, roundabouts of Sector 56, PGI campus, Sector 49, road to Funcity, near railway station, IT Park. Most of the slip roads have seemingly vanished as slush has covered them. Even cement blocks that were recently laid along the roads dividing Sectors 28 and 29, and Sectors 33 and 34 had been damaged. Thick layer of mud and slush on the roads has spelled doom for motorists, especially two-wheeler riders. The authorities concerned have failed to clear sand from roads, which are further aggravating the problems of motorists.
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40-yr-old tree makes way for car shelter
Chandigarh, August 8 One of Sham Singh’s neighbours alleged that he had been chopping off the branches of the tree regularly ever since he had been allotted the house. Many a time we had a narrow escape when a branch of the tree fell, alleged the neighbour. "I have my emotions linked with this tree. This tree wouldn't have harmed Sham Singh in any way. In fact, it could have proved useful for him," he said. Even though the police and officials from horticulture department came here many times to look into the matter, it proved futile as no action was taken against Sham Singh, neigbours claimed. It is surprising that the officials concerned did not take any action despite the matter being brought to their notice.
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Tributes paid to Major Shankla
Chandigarh, August 8 A contingent of the 18 Dogra Battalion presented a guard of honour at his memorial in Sector 2, Panchkula. Arms were reversed and a two-minute silence was observed as a mark of respect to the martyr. Buglers sounded the Last Post followed by the Rouse. Wreaths were laid by Maj-Gen Nirmolok Singh from Headquarters Western Command, Station Commander, Chandi Mandir, battalion’s commanding officer, Brig N.K. Mishra, Sandeep’s father Lieut-Col J.S. Kanwar (retd) as well as other officers and civilian dignitaries. In a counter-terrorist operation at Zafarkhani village in Kupwara district, Major Shankla was leading an operation against terrorists, which resulted in the elimination of nine terrorists and apprehension of 22 others. For his daredevil act, most conspicuous courage, devotion to duty and valour, Maj Sandeep Shankla was posthumously awarded the highest peacetime gallantry award, the Ashoka Chakra. In the same operation, sepoy Swaran Singh was posthumously awarded Kirti Chakra, the second highest gallantry award, and Capt B.J.S. Sandhu was awarded the Shaurya Chakra. In addition, the battalion earned five Sena Medals, two COAS Commendation Cards and one GOC-in-C Commendation Card.
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Reporter's Diary
Though Manisha Malik’s term as vice-president, Zirakpur MC, ended three months ago, she continues to live in past glory. The nameplate outside her house still names her as the vice-president of the nagar panchayat, Zirakpur. In the recently concluded municipal election, she emerged victorious from a party, which is now in a minority in the council. Will someone please tell her to wake up to the reality? Some vanity
More than any one else, its journalists who love to see their name in print even if it is in the columns of a telephone directory. Some time ago when the Mohali Industries Association (MIA) released its telephone directory, journalists covering the event made a beeline for the directory, each trying to grab a copy. Even while the event was going on, everyone was busy shuffling through the directory looking for their names, photos and addresses. As far the organisers were concerned, it seemed that the function was over.
Giant potholes
Potholes in Mohali are getting bigger and bigger. The moment motorists enter Mohali from Chandigarh, it becomes difficult to negotiate potholes. On Friday, two motor-borne youths had a miraculous escape while negotiating potholes near the furniture market, Sector 52. The situation has been like this for the past over two weeks, but the authorities are yet to react. A reader called the Sentinel, pointing out that the roads would be repaired only when the Punjab CM uses it while coming to Mohali.
RTI helpline
Chandigarh will get the RTI helpline on Independence Day. Cashing in on the “RTI boom”, R.K. Garg, a Sector 27 resident, will start the helpline to guide residents how to go about using the RTI tool to cull information from the thick-skinned
bureaucracy. The helpline would go a long way in bringing transparency in the functioning of the government departments, Garg feels. He can be contacted at 98726-92400 and rkgarg_27@rediffmail.com
We all know that monkeys in Chandigarh have “adjusted” to city life. They are everywhere. And residents here have also learnt to live in harmony with them. But there are other animals who are getting used to city life now. A horse in Mohali knows how to steal a snack. As the cart owner waits for a customer, the horse feeds on the grass growing along the road and medians. (See picture). Another stray bull who roams about in Phase VIII-Phase IX dividing lights knows that it should stop on traffic lights. The bull can be seen waiting with the traffic when the signal is red and when the light turns green, it begins to move, probably egged on by cars honking behind it!
Food as bribe
The UT health department is eager to bribe a particular journalist, despite a large number of journalists in the city. Health officials urged a newspaper not to carry a specific story. They were ready to offer food in any eating joint. They offered to go with family members and friends. — Contributed by Rajiv Bhatia, Chitleen K Sethi, Rajmeet Singh, Pradeep Sharma and Anuja Jaiswal
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Contractor’s bid to take forcible possession
Chandigarh, August 8 According to society president, the contractor’s men came to the society this evening and allegedly tried to take possession of the society. The contractor’s men tried to force their way into the apartments, he alleged. Society members said the contractor had been harassing them from a long time even after they had paid the entire money to him. They also alleged that the contractor, Jatinder Mittal, had used substandard material in the construction of the apartments. The society members informed the PCR, which on reaching the scene confirmed that the possession was with the members. Police station-34 SHO Sudarshan Thakur said no case had been registered.
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Mountview develops leakage
Chandigarh, August 8 While visiting the hotel, it was found that most the area had developed a leakage problem. The eating corners, including the banquet hall, the Chinese restaurant, the main kitchen and the lobby were leaking profusely. One could find containers at various places in the hotel to collect leaking water. The hotel authorities covered the roof of the recently constructed coffee shop with a tarpaulin cover as most of the area was leaking. After being informed about the leakage, a team of officials, including the CITCO managing director and chief general manager, visited the hotel for an on-the-spot inspection. CITCO MD Niharika Rai denied that there was a leakage problem in the building. It is only a rumour that there is a major leakage in the coffee shop, she said, adding that she had no clue about any other leakage on the hotel premises. Meanwhile, a visitor to the coffee shop said he would prefer not to visit the coffee shop again.
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Priyanka in city for shooting
Chandigarh, August 8 In the movie, she plays a model, Meghna Mathur, who comes from Chandigarh to shine in the fashion industry. She is here to enact the first part of a simple town girl. The shooting is scheduled at various places of the city for four days. The movie revolves around the fashion industry depicting the manner in which girls from small towns land in big cities and struggle to fulfill their dreams. Also, it portrays how powerful forces smash their dream and push them towards hell.
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Promote cycling
Chandigarh has a long way to go before the city truly feels like a welcoming place for cyclists. In European cities like Paris people have a respectful attitude towards cycling. The administration should promote cycling in the city by campaigning its advantages. This would help in reducing the pollution. Also, we would require less parking space in the markets. If nurtured, cycling can grow into a good transportation alternative. Rajesh Krishan, Chandigarh
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Cabinet nod to PGI dental and nursing college
Chandigarh, August 8 At present, the dental and nursing college of PGI seeks approval from the Dental and Nursing Council of India for any decision. The college cannot start a new course or increase seats without getting the permission of the council, said an official of the PGI administration. If everything goes well, the college will be able to increase the seats for postgraduate courses. The college has only two seats each in the paediatric dentistry and orthodontics masters courses. Elated, Dr A. K. Utreja of the college said, “We were waiting for this decision for the past one year. It’s really good for the PGI and the students, who seek admission here, but due to lack of seats, they were unable to get admission.” The deputy director, administration,
PGI, A.K. Gupta, said, “I had no idea about the decision. It was proposed in the Cabinet a year ago but there is no information about the amendment in the PGI Act, 1966.” Dr Inderjeet
Walia, principal of nursing college, PGI, said the decision would benefit many
students.
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Ayurvedic college’s affiliation cancelled
Chandigarh, August 8 According to sources, PU has also issued a show-cause notice to the college as to why and how the college has made admissions when it was not supposed to do. Interestingly, the council had cancelled the affiliation after finding many violations in the college. Not having permanent faculty, running without the mandatory hospital on the premises, being some of the major reasons for affiliation cancellation. It may be recalled that like Homeopathy College, even the ayurvedic college has a long-standing tussle between its management and the teachers. The teachers complained to the university that they were not given proper salaries, increments and promotions and other such benefits. The university had intervened in the matter and after sending two- three committees to the college, an agreement was reached upon by the management and the teachers on five points. The management agreed to comply on those five points but only on paper. Till date, no benefits have been given to the teachers despite the fact that the teachers have given repeated reminders to the university. Even the vice-chancellor had, on more than one occasion, assured the teachers that their demands would be met and the problem would be sorted out amicably, but nothing had been done in this regard so far. Vice-chancellor Prof R. C. Sobti said, “No violations will be tolerated in the case. University calendar will be followed. We have told the management that after cancellation of affiliation from the central council, the college will be responsible for any further action.” Denying the charges of making admissions by the college, Naresh
Mittal, vice-president of Sri Dhanwantary Ayurvedic Educational Society, said, “It is the university that has made the admissions and even the counselling was conducted by it. We have not done it.” When asked about the show-cause letter issued by the university, he denied having received any letter. “No such notice or letter has been received by the college till date,” he said. “College management has given 25 per cent interim effective from June 1, 2007, to its teachers. PU was to give us NOC for increase in seats and increasing fees and it has not done that so far. Whatever we collect, we spend it on staff and students,” he added. When asked that if the college had got approval to make admissions this year by central council, Mittal said, “Every year the approval comes in end of August to the university and PU only sends us a copy of that.” However, the admissions are made in July. Principal and chairman of the management could not be contacted despite repeated attempts.
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Merger to damage CCA status: Alumni
Chandigarh, August 8 Terming the proposal to make CCA, an independent identity, as a dependent department of PEC as "highly deplorable", the alumni feared that losing identity would be damaging to the already-acquired status and reputation of the CCA. "Even the All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the Council of Architecture require the architecture colleges to have a distinct set-up with their own infrastructure,” a representation from the alumni to the Chandigarh administration says. Acting on a representation of two CCA teachers, the administration had proposed the Chandigarh University of Design and Technology by merging CCA and PEC. The alumni claimed that independent architecture colleges had been better centres of excellence than the merged ones. For instance, JJ School of Architecture, Mumbai, and School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, were way ahead of the departments of architecture at IIT Kharagpur and IIT Roorkee. "CCA has already attained self-sufficiency in terms of adequate infrastructure as required under norms of the statutory bodies. It has a regular budget allocation by the administration and enjoys a purposeful administrative rapport with the administration, which has always considered favourably its genuine needs and demands for its development as a premier institute of architectural learning," the representation states. City's founding fathers established the CCA as an academic wing of the Chandigarh experiment led by Le Corbusier and patronised by Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru to create a resource bank of trained architects for translating the master plan of Chandigarh into reality.
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Awareness programme on community responsibility
Chandigarh, August 8 James, an Irishman, has been working in India since 1986 along with Janak, who ventured into social work in 1985. Janak is a recipient of Rajmata Vijay Raje Scindia social service award, which she received in 2007. He received the “Order of British Empire” from the Queen of England in June 2008 for his social service and promotion of the use of alternative energy by rural communities in India. The duo spoke about how they train “community volunteers” and make school dropouts stand on their feet. After training the tribals of Madhya Pradesh for six months, they help them appear for the examinations through NIOS and award them certificates. The volunteers spread their learning among other tribals and deprived women of Madhya Pradesh. McGilligan believes in an integrated approach for the development and empowerment of women. At Barli Institute, they focus on growing their own food on six acres of land and recycling products and byproducts.
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PU’s new courses lack infrastructure, faculty
Chandigarh, August 8 “There is hardly any infrastructure available in terms of adequate classrooms and labs available for the students. Also, there are no regular classes. What is the point of studying a course that does not have faculty and even books in library?” questions a student. Though the course comes under the Centre for Emerging Areas in Science and Technology but even the centre exists only on papers. “We are paying a whopping of Rs 50,000 per year for the two-year course. But we seem to be getting nowhere. PU is going the commercial way and is not bothered about the problems of the students,” said another student. According to sources, even repeated requests of students to the course coordinator and the vice-chancellor has fallen on deaf ears. Vice-chancellor Prof R. C. Sobti said, “Every problem has been sorted out and the new faculty is being appointed.”
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PR education should be industry-centric: Atray
Chandigarh, August 8 Vivek Atray, director, public relations, Chandigarh, was the guest of honour. He said in drawing the syllabus for PR education, the two vital facts to be taken into view: upgrading the techniques and skills and mastering in new technology. C.J. Singh, former vice-president of PRSI, stressed upon the need of accreditation of PR professionals and informed that PRSI was in the process of finalising the accreditation procedure. Renuka B. Salwan, former chairperson of PRSI, said the PR education should be more industry centric. Kanchan Mandlaus, director, communications, PIB, informed about the various challenges faced by the professionals in the government sector. Manmeet Mann from Fortis Hospital and Manju Wadwalker from PGI explained the role of PR in medical communication.
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PU to implement OBC quota
Chandigarh, August 8 Vice-chancellor, Prof R.C. Sobti, who had on Thursday made a presentation before the empowerment committee, said, “We are going to implement OBC quota by August 31. We are waiting for the letter and I am hopeful of getting 530 new posts for teaching staff while 700 new posts for non-teaching staff under this quota.”
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ICICI Bank fined for harassment
Chandigarh, August 8 The forum also asked the bank to refund the amount of Rs 9,021, which the petitioner was forced to deposit after he received the call. The bank has also been asked to pay Rs 10,000 as litigation costs. Petitioner Premendu Roy stated that he had got a credit card issued in 2006. He stated that the bank made a payment of Rs 16,328 to LIC towards a policy without any authorisation from him. After the petitioner was informed about it he lodged a complaint. He was asked to deposit five per cent of the payment of Rs 825 and that the same will be refunded after receiving the amount of Rs 16,328 from LIC. After the refund, he deposited Rs 15,503 with the bank, after deducting Rs 825 already deposited to satisfy the payment. However, month after month he was charged late payment interest and service tax, reflecting gross deficiency on the part of the bank. Subsequently, he received a threatening call from a person who said he was from the Delhi police and a case of forgery and cheating has been registered against him. He was also told that non-bailable warrants have also been issued against him. When he probed into the matter the bank authorities asked him to deposit Rs 9,021 against the credit card. However, the ICICI Bank argued that it doesn’t deal with the LIC and denied of any such threat call.
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Chandigarh, August 8
