Chandigarh: The Union Territory of Chandigarh will be developed as a medical hub.
Addressing the Independence Day function here after unfurling the Tricolour at the Parade Ground, Chandigarh administrator VP Singh Badnore said: “Today, we are collectively facing the Covid-19 pandemic, a global health crisis. The war against the virus is a challenge and we are prepared for it. A lesson is well learnt, and we are geared up to make Chandigarh a medical hub with exceptional facilities to tackle any such health threat.”
Adding a word of caution, he said: “Until a vaccine is developed, we will have to take precautions. It is the duty of every citizen to respect nature and follow rules. Let us fight this together and emerge stronger.”
COMMENDATION FOR CORONA WARRIORS
Announcing commendation certificates for Covid warriors, he said, “Your selfless contribution and tireless efforts have helped in averting a serious threat, that is yet far from over. I am certain that you all will keep these spirits alive and come together as before in containing the spread of coronavirus,” he said.
He said that the World Health Organisation has recognised the success of Chandigarh Administration, particularly in containing the spread of infection in Bapu Dham Colony.
He commended the mayor, councillors, municipal corporation commissioner and staff who contributed to the war against coronavirus by providing essential commodities at the doorsteps of residents during the curfew.
Badnore complimented Chandigarh Police for ensuring checking at inter-state borders and maintaining perimeter control of containment zones besides enforcing social distancing, mask wearing and curfew timings.
{{/usCountry}}Badnore complimented Chandigarh Police for ensuring checking at inter-state borders and maintaining perimeter control of containment zones besides enforcing social distancing, mask wearing and curfew timings.
{{/usCountry}}He appreciated teachers for the smooth transition to online teaching during the pandemic so that classes were not disrupted.
He urged citizens to remain alert and cautious.
FINANCIAL AID FOR EX-SERVICEMEN INCREASED
Badnore said financial assistance for ex-servicemen, who had retired or were released from service without pension and are above 65 years, has been increased from Rs 2,500 to Rs 5,000 a month. Financial assistance of widows of subedar major rank or of the same rank in the navy and air force has also been enhanced from Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 a month.
Badnore said the construction of Government High School in Manimajra was at an advanced stage and work on building an additional 216 houses for Chandigarh Police personnel will begin soon.
The new mini sports complex in Sector 8 is complete and another such complex is nearing completion in Sector 27.
The construction of a new international shooting range in Sector 25 and mini sports infrastructure for billiards and snooker in the Sports Complex of Sector 42 will begin shortly.
The Chandigarh Housing Board plans to rent out 2,500 vacant small flats in Maloya for migrant labourers under the Affordable Rental Housing Complexes Scheme.