Abysmal state of Focal Point angers bizmen

Ludhiana: The deteriorating condition of all phases of Focal Point is causing huge resentment among businessmen of the area, who are of the view that the Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation (PSIEC) — which is responsible for the development of Focal Point — is paying no heed to their demands. According to them, the recent rains due to which a majority of the areas in Focal Point were waterlogged, has exposed the working of PSIEC, which is turning a blind eye to their problems. Businessmen are also of the view that they were ready to contribute from their own pockets for infrastructural improvements.
According to Rajnish Ahuja, president of Focal Point Sheds Association: “Focal Point has now turned into a hell, with no sewerage, broken roads, encroachment on parks, and every other kind of problem one can imagine. Just one day of rains has flooded most of the areas in Focal Point. We urge the Department of Industry and Commerce to at least start the work of sewerage and road upgradation, as they have already received grants for that.”

Inderjit Singh Navyug, president of United Cycle and Parts Manufacturers Association (UCPMA) said: “PSIEC must explain what happened to the developmental works it had passed, and the funds it claimed had been earmarked for upgradation of Focal Point. PSIEC’s indifference has given rise to other problems, as a majority of transporters have started charging extra for transport and delivery of goods there. Along with PSIEC, politicians also must be blamed for remaining silent on the issue. It’s really sad that every time there are elections, businessmen are used by politicians for votes and funds, but they don’t give a damn to our problems.”