*Sharma calls for reforms in JMC governance
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Mar 18: A meeting under the Jan Samvad programme was held at the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC), jointly chaired by senior BJP leader and former Mayor Rajinder Sharma and JMC Commissioner Dr Devansh Yadav. The meeting, attended by 35 former councillors and officials of the Urban Local Body, focused on urban development and governance challenges.
Speaking at the meeting, Sharma emphasized that in the absence of an elected Mayor, administrative powers rest with the JMC Commissioner. Stressing the role of JMC as a decision-making body capable of immediate execution, he highlighted the need for long-term urban planning, including measures to ensure proper water supply, underground wiring, and improved sanitation.
Sharma also called for stricter enforcement against polythene use, stating that poly carry bags account for 70% of drain blockages. He urged JMC Enforcement Officers to take strict action against those smuggling poly bags into Jammu.
On sanitation, Sharma suggested beat-wise cleaning operations with accountability fixed on sanitation workers. He proposed appointing Swachchta Ambassadors from the local community to monitor attendance and performance of sanitation staff, linking their salaries to their work efficiency.
Regarding infrastructure projects, Sharma stressed the need for JMC to have its own quality control wing, as reliance on external agencies often leads to compromised work due to a prevailing commission culture.
Sharma also criticized the inefficacy of water tankers distributed through mobile applications, arguing that the most deserving often remain deprived. He highlighted the lack of progress in 26 tube wells initiated under his tenure.
On the issue of stray dogs, Sharma accused authorities of restricting the Municipal Veterinary Officer’s role while appointing Animal Officers without proper oversight. He also pushed for JMC to train a 40-member team for street light maintenance, proposing that each worker be responsible for fixing 10 lights daily or face salary deductions.
Further, he advocated for an independent quality control section within JMC, equipped with lab assistants, an executive engineer, and an administrative officer to ensure high standards in civic works. Stressing the need for an e-office system to prevent violations, Sharma urged collective efforts to bring transformative change in urban governance.
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