Worried over rising crime, stray dogs: Senior citizens

Chandigarh: With Lok Sabha elections round the corner in Chandigarh, candidates of all age groups are voicing their opinions clearly. Certain prominent individuals from the city, aged 60 and above, also shared their perspectives on candidates contesting the elections and changes they hope to see. Former Mohali deputy commissioner 65-year-old Tejinder Singh Sidhu had a lot to say when asked about his expectations. “First and foremost, I would bring into notice the safety of citizens. The crime rate of the city is increasing and people are not feeling safe anymore. The general sense of security among people is lacking.” The second concern he mentioned was “dog menace.” He said, “There is no control of the local authorities over stray dogs and cattle, which is hampering the day-to-day lives of people.”When asked about the state of development of the city, he said, “The price of property in and around Chandigarh is going through the roof. However, certain villages which come under the purview of MC Chandigarh are not getting the right attention.” He added, “There are around 22 such villages, very close to the city. But are not getting the required attention. For instance, villages like Khuda Lahora and Khuda Ali Sher need to be developed and worked on, so that people have access to the most basic facilities. Irregular water supply and electricity supply is a pressing issue in such areas.” The status of Chandigarh as a Union Territory has also been a pressing issue for ages. Retired principal of Government College, Mohali, Gurminder Kaur Singh (82) said, “According to me, the candidate must support the present status of Chandigarh as a Union Territory. It serves as the capital of two prosperous states, Punjab and Haryana, and must continue to remain so." When asked about civic issues and maintenance of the city, she added that “the city must be kept clean at all costs. The authorities are doing a great job with systematic collection of garbage as they are following the garbage segregation process. However, they should take garbage disposal equally seriously to keep all the corners of the city clean.”When asked about a smoother flow of traffic in the city, Kaur added, “Traffic near schools, colleges, offices, and courts must be regulated at opening and closing times. This will reduce the ruckus and people as well as authorities will save on time.” The retired principal further emphasised on women’s safety, by saying “The concerned authorities are doing a wonderful job. However, with some more effort, they can raise more awareness among the younger generation regarding this issue.”