PATNA: Chief minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday asked officials of urban development and housing department (UDHD) to develop stormwater drainage system in all towns in the state to prevent waterlogging. The CM also asked the officials to expedite the work on development of old-age homes in every town for the senior citizens, well- off or poor, who don’t have anyone to look after them.
The CM issued the instructions while reviewing the work of the UDHD under ‘Aatmnirbhar Bihar Ke Saat Nischay 2.0’ scheme. UDHD secretary Anand Kishore made a presentation on various ongoing works, including stormwater drainage, electric crematorium and solid and liquid waste management.
The CM asked the officials to prepare an action plan and start work on construction of multi-storey buildings for rehabilitation of the homeless poor in various towns. “Old-age homes should be constructed at a fast pace in all towns for senior citizens, irrespective of whether they are poor or rich. Such shelter homes should have adequate amenities, including food and healthcare. The department should look after the maintenance and management of these shelter homes,” Nitish said.
Additional chief secretary (social welfare department) made a presentation on construction of old-age shelter homes, their proper operations and maintenance.
“Solid and liquid waste management will ensure developed and spick-and-span towns. Advance technology should be used for recycling of garbage. Jeevika workers are being roped in for recycling of garbage at some places. Works being done at many other places in the country in this regard can also be studied for their implementation here,” the CM said.
The CM also asked the officials to identify places for cremation in every district and develop them at a fast pace. “Steps should be taken for electric crematorium and development of cremation grounds on the banks of rivers. Bans Ghat is the oldest ghat in Patna. Arrangement should be made for construction of more electric crematoriums and other cremation places. Ganga river has shifted away from Bans Ghat. Two ponds should be constructed at the electric crematorium here and filled with Ganga water,” Nitish said.
He added washroom, toilet, changing rooms, drinking water and canteen facilities should also be developed at the cremation grounds. “In several ghats, last rites are performed as per traditional, religious and historical beliefs. Such ghats should also be developed. Also, a place should be identified in villages for development of crematoriums,” the CM said, adding approach roads should also be constructed for crematoriums.
Deputy CM and UDHD minister Tarkishore Prasad also attended the meeting.