Dharamshala by-elections: Himachal’s crusader highlights need for accountability in city’s smart city project
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The Newz Radar
Dharamshala: In the upcoming by-election in Dharamshala, retired IAS officer J M Pathania, who is spearheading crusades over some critical issues, emphasized the need for candidates to address the public’s expectations.
He urged political parties and potential candidates to articulate their plans for transforming Dharamshala into a world-class smart city.
Addressing journalists in Dharamshala, he highlighted the failures in implementing the Smart City project since its inception in 2016. Despite changes in government, the project’s execution remained stagnant, leading to a lack of tangible benefits for the city’s residents.
Under the Smart City initiative, Dharamshala was slated to receive upgraded tourism facilities, 24/7 water supply, improved transportation, and other amenities. However, mismanagement and misallocation of funds have hindered progress. Instead of benefiting the city, funds meant for smart projects were redirected elsewhere.
Pathania stressed the importance of evaluating past shortcomings to ensure effective utilization of funds in the future. With public awareness growing, stakeholders are increasingly focused on candidates’ plans for reviving the Smart City project. This election presents an opportunity for meaningful dialogue and action towards Dharamshala’s development.
