To restore old glory, commercial activities to be resumed at Sec 17

After a gap of six years, the municipal corporation (MC) is all set to revive the Sector-17 Plaza by giving a boost to commercial activities.

After a gap of six years, the municipal corporation (MC) is all set to revive the Sector-17 Plaza by giving a boost to commercial activities.

Around Rs 8 crore were spent on the plaza’s renovation in 2009, after which the authorities had banned the commercial activities to maintain cleanliness and stop destruction of government properties. (HT PHOTO)

The agenda will be taken up at the finance and contract committee (F&CC) meeting scheduled on March 14.

Mayor Arun Sood said, “Under the initiative, stalls and canopies will be allowed to be set up, and social events could also be held. We want to restore the old glory of the commercial hub of the city, which has witnessed a drastic drop in footfall; the place is struggling to compete with comely and convenient malls of the city. Some areas lying unused should be utilised properly.”

Around Rs 8 crore were spent on the plaza’s renovation in 2009, after which the authorities had banned the commercial activities to maintain cleanliness and stop destruction of government properties. During Diwali last year, several cultural activities, including joyrides, were planned but as no bidder came forward, the idea was dropped.

Pertinently, since 2006, the civic body has been doing nothing but empty talk when it comes to providing a facelift to the plaza. Some old promises include toy train, three big pools, modern benches, modified footpaths and two fountains opposite the General Post Office.