With poll code lifted, major projects set to gain pace in Ambala Cantt

With the model code of conduct lifted following the Haryana Assembly elections, several key development projects in Ambala Cantonment, including the much-awaited civil airport (domestic enclave) and the Shaheed Smarak, are set to gain momentum.

The inauguration of the civil enclave, which was slated for August, was delayed due to the model code of conduct, halting the start of flights. Other major projects, such as the relocation of dairies to Brahmin Majra, stormwater drainage, sewerage improvements, and the construction of a National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) branch, are now expected to progress at a faster pace.

Speaking to The Tribune, Ambala Cantonment MLA Anil Vij said, “The civil enclave is ready. I have spoken to the authorities concerned, and only a scanner needs to be installed. I have asked officials to expedite the process and start flights as soon as possible. There was an earlier plan to launch flights to Ayodhya and Jammu in August, but this was delayed. The final routes will be confirmed soon.”

Vij, who also visited the Shaheed Smarak, said, “I visited the Shaheed Smarak after the election, and the work is progressing well. I expect the project to be completed in five to six months.” He added that other projects, including the relocation of dairies and the construction of the NCDC branch in Naggal village, will now move forward at full speed.

Vij also held a review meeting with the Municipal Council to discuss ongoing projects. He directed the officials to begin work on projects where tenders have already been allotted, warning that delays would not be tolerated. “Development works should be completed within the stipulated time frame, and pending road projects must be finished as soon as possible. Additionally, sanitation needs more attention from municipal officials,” he said.

The slow pace of these projects had been a significant issue during the Assembly elections, with several candidates raising concerns about delays in completion.

Addressing the criticism, Vij said, “Qutab Minar was not built in a day. New projects take time, but now that the model code of conduct has been lifted, everything will gather pace. I have issued strict instructions to the officials to work at full capacity and complete the projects at the earliest.”