GUWAHATI: Concerns about the wastage of public funds have been raised as the old flower planters on Guwahati’s Ganeshguri Bridge remain empty, even as new flower installations have been placed on this and other flyovers in the city.
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Residents have expressed dissatisfaction over the authorities’ decision to install new planters elsewhere while neglecting the maintenance and upkeep of the existing ones. The empty planters on the Ganeshguri Bridge not only detract from the city’s aesthetics but also symbolise inefficient use of public resources.
“This is nothing but a waste of taxpayers’ money,” said Mani Kalita, a local resident of Ulubari while speaking to GPlus.
“Instead of adding new planters, the government should focus on maintaining the ones we already have,” she added.
Many people also blame the authorities for no proper upkeep of already planted flowers or plants which should be the prime concern.
Urban planners and environmentalists have also reiterated these concerns, talking on the need for a sustainable approach to city beautification. They argue that proper upkeep of existing installations should be prioritised before undertaking new projects.
Talking to GPlus, Mrigen Sarania, Mayor of GMC said, “This is a new beautification project undertaken by the PWD and it needs to be seen as to how they are going to manage and maintain it along with the older ones.”
Citizens are calling for greater accountability and transparency in public spending to ensure that resources are used effectively for the betterment of the city.
