Smart City : Preventing corruption axis

Dr Th Suresh Singh *

Bird eye view of Imphal Valley as seen from top of Cheiraoching in August 2014 :: Pix - Deepak Oinam

Smart City Preventing Minister/Beaurocrate/Engineer/Thikadar axis corruption should be the main focus followed by time bound completion of various activities

Manipur’s trouble is that any development work remains incomplete with money going to the pocket of a few. Hence, prevent corruption in the name of Modi’s Smart City with time-bound completion of various activities. 1st priority should be to prevent air pollution to avoid New Delhi-like situation.

For this-as a 1st step, convert all auto rickshaws into an electrical/solar-battery one followed by total ban of diesel engine vehicles. Other steps be undertaken in a phased manner.

The 2nd be-prevent road and market congestion by taking permanent steps. Construct short double storied bridges for diversion in a short time followed by permanent traffic rules and parking places.

Making 10/20 markets in the same congested area is not going to solve vendor problems, nor expanding roads to a mile wide without proper traffic rule will solve traffic congestion.

Also, construct special roads separately to reach the 2 medical colleges to prevent untimely death of patients while transporting.

The 3rd priority be- construction of well-planned multi-storied residential flats in the periphery of the upcoming ring roads. This will save valuable land as we had already lost vast number of agricultural land.

Sooner than later, we will have serious land scarcity for development works. Hence, this will prevent wastage of valuable land and will also prevent congestion and pollution.

The 4th one be - Modi’s Swatch Bharat campain. It is a complete failure in Manipur. It is not implemented even in the 1km Paona and Thanggal bazaar belt, what a pity!

Impose heavy fines, implement it in all markets within a fixed period in the 1st phase. 5th one be – propagation of extensive use of solar energy and converting solid waste into usable energy.

Many states are in advanced stage while we are in the primitive stage.

Others be
–i) stop unnecessary wastage of public money like the present traffic light, off and on construction of median roads, 1or 2 feet wide drainage nala whish serves no purpose etc.

ii) activate the present rotten Imphal Municipality who are experts in creating potholes in foot paths, creating congestions etc.

iii) create and maintain at least 5 feet wide foot paths in all areas This is meant for maintaining healthy lifestyle and helping senior citizens.

Those who are misusing it in the existing system be warned strictly by imposing heavy fines.

All these are over and above daily requirements of 24&7 hygienic water supply, electricity and proper sanitation system including paid bathrooms in public places.

The list is endless, intend to write an article, but could not because of heavy court case engagements.

However, it will be nice and appropriate if given suggestions are included in our planned smart city.